US Pharm. 2006;2:8.

Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S., but many are unaware of their individual risk. More than half of all cardiovascular deaths are due to coronary heart disease (CHD). This year, approximately 700,000 Americans will have a new coronary attack and about 500,000 will have a recurrent attack. The American Heart Association's report, "Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics--2006 Update," estimates that 71.3 million American adults have one or more types of cardiovascular disease (CVD), and 43.9 million are younger than age 65.

My guess is that most people, especially those under 65, don't think they will have a stroke or heart attack. Nevertheless, it happens. We all know of someone who has suffered either event, from mild heart attack or ministroke to a permanently disabling or fatal one. Pharmacists are well positioned to educate their patients and their community about the importance of cholesterol testing, blood pressure checks, controlling diabetes, taking their medications as prescribed, and knowing their lifestyle risk factors. Too many of us smoke, overeat, don't take needed medications, or get little physical activity.

The dramatic rise in the prevalence of obesity and type 2 diabetes is fueling an increase in hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and atherosclerosis. It is not surprising that some 65 million Americans have high blood pressure; 13.2 million have CHD (7.2 million, myocardial infarction, and 6.5 million, angina pectoris); 5 million, heart failure; and 5.5 million, stroke. (The latest estimates of prevalence of CVDs are based on NHANES 1999–2002 [see this month's TrendWatch on page 10]).

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) projected that in 2005, the cost of heart disease and stroke in the U.S. would exceed $394 billion. To reduce risk factors for heart disease and stroke, the CDC suggests:

•  People should avoid tobacco use, eat healthier foods, control diabetes, and be more physically active.

•  Community health settings need to have systems in place that will improve the quality of care that high-risk patients receive.

•  Employers can offer health screenings and follow-up services to help employees control their blood pressure and cholesterol levels. They can offer adequate insurance coverage for health services that aim to prevent heart disease and stroke.

•  Educating the public about signs of a heart attack and stroke and the importance of calling 911 quickly is an important step to improving the chances for survival and minimizing the damage that can occur following a heart attack or stroke.

As you read the articles in this issue, consider the difference you can make. Encourage your patients to learn about their risks and strategies for prevention.

Laura La Piana Simonsen
Executive Managing Editor

To comment on this article, contact editor@uspharmacist.com.