1. What is the decision or change (e.g. clinical topic, practice guideline, system design, delivery you are facing or struggling with where a summary of the evidence would be helpful?

Given that LDL-cholesterol screening is demonstrably low in post-heart attack patients and that LDL-lowering treatment has the demonstrated ability to prevent secondary events, it should be of critical interest to the Committee to explore how to prevent secondary heart attacks and strokes. Screening and guideline-based therapy can save both taxpayer dollars and American lives. Rates of secondary events should not be as high as 30% of American heart attack events when we know the risk factors contributing to heart attacks and have the simple tools to prevent them.

2. Why are you struggling with this issue?

America’s progress in decreasing the death rate of death due to heart disease and stroke has stalled. The death rate for cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and strokes, has fallen just 4% since 2011 after dropping more than 70% over the prior six decades. Particularly alarming is that certain age and demographic groups are seeing increases in the rate of cardiovascular-related death. Cardiovascular disease continues to kill more Americans every year than any other condition and accounts for approximately one in three deaths yearly.

3. What do you want to see changed? How will you know that your issue is improving or has been addressed?

Given the advances in cardiovascular science and medicine, preventing secondary events has become much easier in the last half-century. Treating risk factors, implementing lifestyle changes, and managing LDL-cholesterol within a target range is critical. Yet, studies show low utilization of simple tests and effective medications post-event.

4. When do you need the evidence report?

Monday, 09/30/2024

5. What will you do with the evidence report?

This report will be used for patient and provider education in regard to preventive care and the need for increased screenings to save lives.

Optional Information About You

If you are making a suggestion on behalf of an organization, please state the name of the organization. Partnership to Advance Cardiovascular Health

May we contact you if we have questions about your nomination? Yes