The “fiction” of primary prevention: Role of IVUS in identifying early atherosclerosis
This is a review of the presentation of Dr. Stephen Nissen at the European Atherosclerosis Society 2004 meeting. And, while it is really no surprise to anyone who cracks a medical journal at least semi-annually, he shocked attendees by stating that 75% of attendees most likely has coronary artery disease that can be identified by intravascular ultrasound and that by the time we identify the problem, it has been ongoing for decades already. However, he addresses “primary prevention” as what cardiologist are doing–to me this is nowhere near “primary.” Addressing lifestyle factors that contribute to inflammation and promoting diets low in refined carbs and trans fats but high in whole grains and fruits and veggies can have a huge impact long before any symptoms might have appeared. This is true primary prevention.
