Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease Epidemiology, Pathophysiology, and Practical Risk Assessment

In summary, ASCVD is a chronic condition driven by endothelial dysfunction and lipid accumulation, leading to plaque development and potential cardiovascular events. This article discusses key risk factors, including hypercholesterolemia, HTN, smoking, diabetes, and age, which collectively contribute to ASCVD progression. Understanding the pathophysiology of plaque formation-beginning with endothelial dysfunction and advancing to plaque rupture-is critical for clinical management. The use of risk assessment tools, such as the Framingham Risk Score and ACC/AHA Risk Estimator, provides clinicians with methods to evaluate and manage patient risk. This personalized approach can guide lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions that effectively mitigate ASCVD-related morbidity and mortality.