CT-Based Visual Atherosclerosis Education Improves Secondary Prevention Adherence: A Retrospective Cohort Study Using...

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Preventive Cardiology
• Medical Education

Background:

• Suboptimal adherence to pharmacotherapy for hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and diabetes hinders secondary prevention in middle-aged individuals.
• Effective management of modifiable atherosclerotic risk factors is crucial for preventing cardiovascular events.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of a novel visually aided atherosclerosis education intervention on medication adherence.
• To assess the effect of computed tomography (CT)-based risk factor education on adherence to secondary prevention measures.

Main Methods:

• Retrospective cohort study of 153 non-smoking males aged 45-60 years.
• Intervention group received CT-based visualisation of atherosclerotic calcification progression and risk factor education.
• K-means cluster analysis classified participants based on control of LDL-C, HbA1c, and SBP.

Main Results:

• The educated group showed significantly higher rates of optimal control (53.9% vs 33.8%, p=0.012).
• Fewer individuals in the educated group had suboptimally controlled risk factors (46.1% vs 66.2%, p=0.012).
• Four adherence patterns were identified: Optimal Control, Suboptimal Lipid Control, Suboptimal Glycaemic Control, and Suboptimal BP Control.

Conclusions:

• Structured, visually aided atherosclerosis education significantly enhances adherence to secondary prevention.
• This intervention optimizes risk factor control, improving patient engagement and long-term cardiovascular outcomes.
• Integrating this evidence-based approach into clinical practice is recommended.