Arguments for prioritizing the number one killer: cardiovascular disease

Most of us are familiar with the shocking statistics that show cardiovascular disease as the number one cause of death worldwide. Upon closer inspection, it is important to recognize that coronary heart disease (CHD) is a subgroup of cardiovascular diseases that tops the list and claims about one in five deaths. CAD occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked by plaque buildup, leading to heart attacks and other serious complications. The encouraging news is that CAD is highly preventable with early diagnosis and treatment, and approximately 80% of deaths are preventable. Early detection of CAD should be a healthcare priority, and both patients and providers play a critical role in driving this change.

The currently prevailing way of assessing suspected coronary artery disease leaves considerable room for improvement. Approximately 90% of testing in the U.S. is multi-layered stress testing, which unfortunately results in a high false negative rate – leaving nearly one in four patients with a false sense of security while remaining at risk of an acute event. This route also unnecessarily sends approximately one in two patients to the catheterization laboratory for exploratory minimally invasive procedures, increasing risk and costs. These opportunities are anything but ideal.

Fortunately, a new approach with significantly better results is rapidly emerging, supported by extensive evidence and endorsed by major cardiovascular societies in their guidelines. Advances in computed tomography technology have led to a superior approach: coronary CT angiography (CCTA). With this method, the chance of a disease being missed is less than 1%, allowing for early diagnosis that can make a real difference. With AI tools, this pathway becomes even more powerful, providing accurate visualization of coronary arteries, detection of blockages, measurement of plaque formation, and non-invasive diagnosis of acute problems. The future is bright and we can make a significant impact by accelerating access to CCTA.

Providers – Educate your patients and lead change

As a healthcare professional, you play a critical role in the early detection of CAD by educating patients about the importance of recognizing symptoms and seeking timely assessment. Symptoms can range from classic chest pain to shortness of breath, dizziness, jaw pain, fatigue and indigestion – symptoms that people may ignore or attribute to less serious medical conditions. Encourage your patients to take these signs seriously and to contact you immediately.

Supporter of expanded diagnostic options

Coronary CTA is now widely covered by insurance for symptomatic patients and is available at over 2,000 centers in the United States. By educating your patients about CCTA and its benefits, you enable them to make informed decisions about their heart health. Integrating CCTA into your diagnostic protocols may provide a non-invasive, highly accurate diagnostic option that can detect CAD early and potentially save lives.

Prioritize your own heart health

Remember, as a provider, you are not immune to heart disease. The demands of the medical profession can contribute to risk factors such as stress and long work hours. Stay vigilant about your own health, pay attention to symptoms, and consider a CCTA if necessary. By prioritizing your heart health, you set a positive example for your patients and ensure you can continue to provide excellent care.

This disease is deeply personal as many of us have unfortunately suffered unexpected losses due to coronary heart disease. While it is encouraging to see the rate of change moving towards a tipping point for a path that we scientifically know is better, there is still much work to be done. By working together to educate patients, use superior diagnostic strategies and take care of our own health, we can address the root cause and move toward a world without heart attacks.

Photo: BrianAJackson, Getty Images

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