[Implications of the REACH registry for internal medicine]

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Context:

• Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) remains a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality.
• Established risk factors for ASCVD are known, but key characteristics and patient profiles at highest risk for atherothrombotic events require further elucidation.
• The Reduction of Atherothrombosis for Continued Health (REACH) registry was initiated to address these knowledge gaps.

Purpose:

• To characterize atherothrombosis as a global disease, transcending individual vascular beds.
• To identify patient characteristics associated with the greatest risk of recurrent atherothrombotic events.
• To emphasize the necessity of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary strategy for managing ASCVD.

Summary:

• The REACH registry findings underscore that atherothrombosis should be viewed globally, not compartmentalized by affected vascular sites.
• Internists play a crucial role due to their integrative perspective, facilitating a multidisciplinary team approach.
• Addressing the pandemic of cardiovascular mortality requires collaboration among healthcare professionals, public administration, and civil society.

Impact:

• Promotes a unified understanding and management strategy for atherothrombosis worldwide.
• Establishes the internist as a central figure in coordinating multidisciplinary cardiovascular care.
• Advocates for broader societal and administrative engagement to combat cardiovascular mortality.