Risk factors for atherosclerotic disease: present and future

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Science
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Atherosclerotic disease is a primary global cause of mortality and disability.
• Significant international variations in atherosclerosis prevalence exist, linked to population-specific risk factor profiles.
• Over 300 risk factors are identified, contributing to atherosclerosis and its complications like coronary heart disease and stroke.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significant impact of conventional risk factors on atherosclerotic disease.
• To emphasize the need for accurate risk assessment models in cardiovascular prevention.
• To underscore the importance of a global strategy for managing atherosclerosis risk.

Main Methods:

• Review of established and emerging risk factors for atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of the contribution of conventional risk factors to overall disease risk.
• Discussion of risk assessment models for individual subjects.

Main Results:

• Conventional risk factors (smoking, lipids, hypertension, diabetes, obesity, diet, physical activity) explain 70%-90% of atherosclerotic disease risk.
• Risk factors can exhibit multiplicative effects, necessitating sophisticated risk estimation models.
• Individualized risk assessment is key for effective prevention.

Conclusions:

• Effective cardiovascular prevention requires a comprehensive understanding of all risk factors.
• Accurate assessment of individual risk using appropriate models is essential.
• A global strategy integrating knowledge of risk factors is vital for reducing the burden of atherosclerotic disease.