Integrated management of cardiovascular risk

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of mortality and is responsible for one-third of all global deaths. Regrettably, surveys of physician’s clinical practice patterns indicate that the recommendations made in the guidelines are sometimes not implemented and the predefined goals of therapy for patients with cardiovascular diseases are not achieved. CVD prevention and management can only be improved through an integrated approach that addresses overall cardiovascular risk and that involve general practitioners as well as specialists.