An Ounce of Prevention

This educational content provides a comprehensive overview of current prevention guidelines from leading global organizations, including the American Heart Association (AHA), American College of Cardiology (ACC), National Lipid Association (NLA), American Society for Preventive Cardiology (ASPC), and European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS). It emphasizes the importance of accurate cardiovascular risk assessment for conditions such as atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease, heart failure, and arrhythmias. 

Participants will explore various risk assessment tools, including clinical risk equations, biomarkers, and advanced atherosclerosis imaging techniques. Special attention is given to lipoprotein(a)—its epidemiology, pathophysiological mechanisms, current role in risk stratification, and future potential as a therapeutic target. The content also highlights the role of inflammation in atherosclerosis progression and its relevance in both risk assessment and management. 

Additionally, it addresses effective strategies for counseling patients on lifestyle modifications, with an emphasis on physical activity, dietary changes, weight management, and smoking cessation. Learners will gain insights into the complexities of lipid-lowering therapies, including side effect profiles, cost considerations, and strategies to improve long-term adherence. 

The curriculum also covers resistant and refractory hypertension, including evaluation for secondary causes and emerging device-based treatments. Cardiometabolic disease and metabolic syndrome are discussed with a focus on the preventive roles of SGLT2 inhibitors and incretin-based therapies. Finally, the importance of a comprehensive, multidisciplinary approach to managing high-risk patients is underscored, ensuring optimal preventive cardiology care.