ASCVD (Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease) Risk Algorithm including Known ASCVD from AHA/ACC

Patients at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).

• In 2013 the American College of Cardiology (ACC) and the American Heart Association (AHA) released new guidelines for the evaluation and treatment of cholesterol in order to reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD).
• This calculator provides a simplified way to follow the ASCVD treatment algorithm, which includes specific advice for patients with known ASCVD (defined as: history of ACS, MI, stable angina, coronary/other arterial revascularization, stroke, transient ischemic attack, or PAD from atherosclerosis) and patients with extreme LDL levels (≥190 mg/dL / 4.92 mmol/L).
• The ASCVD Risk Calculator is only appropriate for patients without ASCVD and with LDL levels 70-189mg/dL (1.81-4.90 mmol/L).
• The treatment algorithm proposed by the ACC/AHA suggests aggressive treatment for many patients, but specifically notes that patients with known ASCVD and patients with extreme LDL levels (≥190 mg/dL / 4.92 mmol/L) are at the highest risk; it also provides the “intensity” of statin treatment based on patients' predicted risk levels.

Points to keep in mind:

• While the score was developed and validated in a large population, several studies have suggested that the risk calculator substantially over-estimates 10-year risk. Some studies have suggested that its risk estimates are accurate.
• Statins are highly emphasized in the guidelines and recommendations, but lifestyle modifications are likely just as – if not more – important to ASCVD risk.
• Sometimes referred to as the Pooled Cohort Equation.

The ASCVD Risk Algorithm is a standardized guideline to predict risk and recommend management strategies for those at risk of ASCVD.