Circulation
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Lifetime risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (CVD) has not previously been estimated, and the effect of risk factor burden on lifetime risk is unknown. ⋯ The absence of established risk factors at 50 years of age is associated with very low lifetime risk for CVD and markedly longer survival. These results should promote efforts aimed at preventing development of risk factors in young individuals. Given the high lifetime risks and lower survival in those with intermediate or high risk factor burden at 50 years of age, these data may be useful in communicating risks and supporting intensive preventive therapy.
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Multicenter Study
Dyslipidemia prevalence, treatment, and control in the Multi-Ethnic Study of Atherosclerosis (MESA): gender, ethnicity, and coronary artery calcium.
To assess the implementation challenge facing the Third Report of the Adult Treatment Panel (ATP III) of the National Cholesterol Education Program, we determined the prevalence, treatment, and control of dyslipidemia, including ethnic and gender differences, in persons free of known clinical cardiovascular disease (CVD). In addition, this report provides information about the presence of coronary artery calcium (CAC) across groups defined by risk and recommendations for the use of lipid-lowering drugs. ⋯ Dyslipidemia is common among persons without CVD. The quality of care for dyslipidemia is suboptimal in general and variable by CVD risk group, ethnicity, and gender. The utility of incorporating CAC screening into the risk stratification and treatment process should be investigated in light of the substantial proportions of persons with CAC who are currently classified as not requiring treatment. Research and quality improvement programs are needed to optimize management of dyslipidemia.