Guidelines for assessment of cardiovascular disease risk.

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) represents the most significant health problem for Australians. The associated conditions collectively were responsible for about 38% of all deaths in 2002 [1]. The prevalence of these diseases has increased by almost 20% over the last decade with the total burden expected to increase in the future due to the growing number of elderly Australians, among whom these diseases are most common [1].

Modifiable risk factors including blood pressure; smoking; cholesterol, weight and physical activity status are associated with CVD, making this disease largely preventable. Future risk of major vascular events depends on the range and intensity of these various risk factors and hence the most appropriate method of assessing this risk needs to be established.

To address this, we are undertaking a project funded by the Australian National Heart Foundation to identify, appraise and summarise the best available evidence and present recommendations to guide practice for assessment of absolute CVD risk in Australia.

1. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare (AIHW). Heart, stroke and vascular diseases – Australian Facts 2004. Canberra: AIHW and National Heart Foundation of Australia (Cardiovascular Disease Series No. 22); 2004. Report No.: AIHW Cat. No. CVD 27.

Contact:
marie.misso@med.monash.edu.au; phone: 03 9594 7534.