Cardiovascular risk assessment in daily clinical practice: when and how to use a risk score

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Preventive Medicine
• Health Risk Assessment

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading cause of global morbidity and mortality.
• European Society of Cardiology Guidelines advocate for risk prediction models in managing cardiovascular risk factors and promoting healthy behaviors.
• Risk models are crucial for identifying high-risk individuals in primary prevention to reduce adverse events and premature deaths.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and guide the selection of appropriate cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk scores for diverse clinical practice settings.
• To highlight the importance of risk stratification in both primary and secondary CVD prevention.
• To emphasize the integration of conventional and emerging non-traditional markers in CVD risk assessment.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of current European Society of Cardiology guidelines and risk prediction models.
• Analysis of the role of CVD risk scores in primary and secondary prevention strategies.
• Discussion on the incorporation of conventional and non-traditional risk factors into risk stratification.

Main Results:

• Risk models integrate conventional factors to estimate 10-year CVD risk.
• Emerging non-traditional markers should be considered alongside conventional factors.
• Evaluating residual CVD risk is essential for optimal secondary prevention and identifying high-risk patients for intensive management.

Conclusions:

• Appropriate selection of CVD risk scores is vital for effective patient management and public health.
• Risk stratification aids in tailoring preventive strategies and intensive treatments for high-risk individuals.
• This review offers guidance on choosing the most suitable CVD risk score for different clinical scenarios.