Secondary Prevention of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease

Cardiovascular disease represents the leading cause of morbidity and mortality for adults in the United States. Decades of progress in the fight against cardiovascular disease is eroding as incident coronary artery disease increases among adolescents and young adults. The use of lifestyle changes and comprehensive medical therapy has reduced the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events and mortality; however, the risk of recurrent cardiovascular events after hospitalization for a myocardial infarction remains high with even higher rates in patients with multivessel disease. Considering that nearly all patients hospitalized for an acute coronary syndrome have a very-high risk status, it is imperative that patients with coronary artery disease (CAD) and other manifestations of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) receive a personalized treatment plan that includes not only guideline directed general recommendations but individualized therapy tailored to their risk profile. Herein, we summarize the up-to-date evidence on lifestyle and pharmacological therapies used in the treatment of CAD and the secondary prevention of recurrent ASCVD events.