Primary Prevention of Cardiovascular Diseases

Pharmacist Learning Objectives At the conclusion of this continuing education activity, the participant will be able to:

1. Explain the benefit of early detection and prevention of cardiovascular diseases

2. Discuss approaches for screening and risk estimation of CVD

3. Examine the current evidence on the use of statin and aspirin for primary prevention of CVD

4. Evaluate patient cases to stratify the risk of developing CVD

5. Design evidence-based treatment plans for prevention of CVD

Pharmacy Technician Learning Objectives At the conclusion of this continuing education activity, the participant will be able to:

1. Describe the benefit of early detection and prevention of cardiovascular diseases

2. Familiarize with different approaches to screen and estimate risk for CVD

3. Explain the role of pharmacotherapeutic options for primary prevention of CVD

4. Discuss the current evidence-based recommendations on the use of statin and aspirin for primary prevention of CVD

Nurse Learning Objectives At the conclusion of this continuing education activity, the participant will be able to:

1. Describe the benefit of early detection and prevention of cardiovascular diseases

2. Familiarize with different approaches to screen and estimate risk for CVD

3. Explain the role of pharmacotherapeutic options for primary prevention of CVD

4. Discuss the current evidence-based recommendations on the use of statin and aspirin for primary prevention of CVD

The use of low-dose aspirin especially in elderly patients as a primary prevention strategy needs to be balanced with a potential risk of adverse events, such as bleeding. In the past, a low dose of aspirin was recommended to prevent stroke and myocardial infarction. However, recent evidence indicates that aspirin use in patients with low to moderate risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) is not associated with a reduction in CVD. Rather, it presents with an increased risk of bleeding. The use of statin in patients at risk of CVD has evolved with recent evidence recommending the use of pooled cohort equation to calculate 10-year Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) risk when determining if a patient can benefit from statin use as a primary prevention strategy. Evidence from the latest clinical trials will be presented to assist the participating audience in determining when the use of low-dose aspirin and statin is recommended. Healthcare professionals will be able to make recommendations to de-prescribe inappropriate use of low-dose aspirin where no added benefit is shown. The use of statin with its correct dosing will be reviewed allowing healthcare professionals to calculate 10-year ASCVD risk to guide decision making.