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Population implications of changes in lipid management in patients with coronary heart disease

Kathleen A Foley1, Mark W Massing, Ross J Simpson

  • 1Outcomes Research & Management, U.S. Medical & Scientific Affairs, Merck & Co., Inc., West Point, Pennsylvania, USA.

The American Journal of Cardiology
|January 13, 2004
PubMed

Insights

Lipid management for coronary heart disease has improved, but undertreatment remains a significant challenge. This suggests a shift from lack of treatment to insufficient treatment in patient care.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology
  • Public Health
  • Pharmacology

Background:

  • Lipid management is crucial for patients with coronary heart disease (CHD).
  • Published literature shows general improvements in lipid management for CHD patients.
  • Understanding population-level implications of these improvements is essential.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To examine the population implications of improved lipid management in coronary heart disease.
  • To identify the evolving challenges in lipid management for CHD patients.

Main Methods:

  • Review of published literature on pharmacologic treatment and goal attainment rates.
  • Analysis of population-level trends in lipid management.

Main Results:

  • Pharmacologic treatment and goal attainment rates indicate improved lipid management in CHD.
  • The challenge in lipid management appears to be shifting.

Conclusions:

  • While overall lipid management has improved, undertreatment is an emerging concern.
  • The focus for CHD lipid management may need to shift from initiating treatment to optimizing existing treatment.

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