Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease is a condition characterized by plaque buildup in the blood vessels, increasing the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attack and stroke. Statins are medications that can help individuals at risk for this disease, but determining who should receive statin therapy involves evaluating multiple factors. The American Heart Association recently updated its risk equations for predicting cardiovascular disease events, potentially leading to changes in clinical practice regarding statin therapy eligibility.
A recent study published in JAMA Internal Medicine explored how the updated risk equations could affect primary prevention statin therapy recommendations. Researchers analyzed a sample of 3,785 adults and found that using the new PREVENT equations significantly reduced the estimated 10-year risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. This reduction resulted in fewer adults meeting eligibility criteria for statin therapy, potentially decreasing the number of individuals prescribed these medications.
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease can have serious consequences, including heart attacks and strokes. Statins are commonly prescribed to individuals at risk for this condition, including those with high cholesterol levels and other risk factors. The decision to start statin therapy depends on an assessment of each individual’s cardiovascular disease risk using tools such as risk calculators.
The study compared two sets of equations, the PCEs and the PREVENT equations, to predict atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease risk and determine statin therapy recommendations. Data from the NHANES survey was used to analyze the impact of these equations on primary prevention statin therapy eligibility. The results indicated a significant decrease in the number of adults recommended for statin therapy when using the PREVENT equations, highlighting potential changes in clinical practice.
The study had limitations such as reliance on self-reported data and lack of information on statin dosage and other lipid-lowering therapies. The findings suggested a shift towards lower-risk categories for individuals, particularly Black adults and those aged 70-75. It also identified a substantial number of eligible adults who were not taking statins based on the new equations, emphasizing the potential impact on statin therapy utilization.
Further research is needed to determine the accuracy and effectiveness of risk-assessment equations in clinical practice. Moving towards better risk communication with patients and possibly adjusting treatment thresholds based on evolving guidelines may be necessary. Utilizing additional tests such as coronary artery calcium scoring could help in making more informed decisions about statin therapy recommendations. Overall, the study highlights the potential implications of updated risk equations on statin therapy eligibility and the importance of personalized risk assessment in cardiovascular disease prevention.
