Peer Reviewed
Feature Article Cardiovascular medicine

Primary prevention of coronary heart disease

Ian Hamilton-craig
Abstract
Improvements in medical treatment and better risk factor control, particularly of smoking and hypertension, have decreased the rates of mortality and morbidity associated with coronary heart disease.
Key Points
  • Coronary heart disease (CHD) remains a major cause of death and disability in Australia.
  • There have been more than 100 risk factors for CHD defined.
  • More than 90% of CHD risk can be attributed to nine modifiable risk factors.
  • Absolute risk assessment can be determined using New Zealand Guidelines Group or Framingham risk charts.
  • More than 90% of CHD events occur in patients with one or more risk factors, although CHD is uncommon in those with no risk factors.
  • Lifestyle interventions are an important aspect of primary prevention of CHD.
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