Prevalence of Cardiovascular Disease
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 655,000 Americans die from heart disease each year, which accounts for one in every four deaths. Here are some additional statistics on the prevalence of CVD in the United States:
- Approximately 121.5 million American adults, or about half of all adults in the United States, have some form of cardiovascular disease.
- Coronary artery disease (CAD), which occurs when the arteries that supply blood to the heart become narrowed or blocked, is the most common type of heart disease in the United States.
- High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a major risk factor for heart disease and affects about 45% of American adults.
- Other risk factors for heart disease include genetics, smoking, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle.
However, the vast majority of cases are preventable through targeted lifestyle modifications, frequent screening, and early treatment interventions.
The ASCVD Process
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a condition that is characterized by the accumulation of fatty plaques within the walls of arteries, which can lead to narrowing and hardening of these blood vessels. This narrowing and hardening, also called atherosclerosis, can impede blood flow and increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular events.
The pathophysiology of ASCVD involves a complex series of events that begins with damage to the endothelial cells that line the inner walls of arteries. This damage can be caused by a variety of factors, including smoking, high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, and diabetes. Once the endothelial cells are damaged, circulating lipids, particularly low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, can begin to accumulate within the walls of the arteries.
As the LDL cholesterol accumulates, it can trigger an inflammatory response within the artery wall, attracting immune cells such as macrophages to the site. These immune cells then try to remove the LDL cholesterol from the artery wall, but can become overwhelmed and begin to accumulate within the fatty plaque themselves. This process can lead to the formation of a fibrous cap over the fatty plaque, which can harden and further narrow the artery.
Over time, the fibrous cap can become weakened, which can cause the fatty plaque to rupture. When this happens, the contents of the plaque, including lipids and immune cells, can spill into the bloodstream and trigger the formation of a blood clot. This clot can then block blood flow to the heart or brain, leading to a heart attack or stroke, respectively.
Functional Medicine & Cardiovascular Disease Prevention
EvoHealth is a functional medicine clinic in Kansas that offers personalized and integrative approaches to healthcare. One of the key areas of focus at EvoHealth Kansas is cardiovascular disease prevention, which is a critical aspect of overall health and wellbeing.
As we discussed earlier, cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death worldwide, and the prevalence of this condition is on the rise. However, many cases of CVD are preventable through lifestyle modifications and early interventions. At EvoHealth Kansas, we take a proactive approach to CVD prevention by addressing the root causes of this condition.
Dr. Tanner Wilson, DC, IFMCP is a IFM Certified Functional Medicine Practitioner that uses a variety of tools and techniques to help patients reduce their risk of developing CVD. One of the key components of our approach is identifying and addressing underlying factors that can contribute to CVD, such as a sedentary lifestyle, chronic inflammation, insulin resistance, and excessive oxidative stress.
Additionally, we use advanced diagnostic tools to assess cardiovascular health, including advanced lipid testing. These tools allow us to detect early signs of CVD and develop targeted interventions to prevent disease progression.
Functional Medicine Approach to ASCVD Prevention
At EvoHealth Kansas Functional Medicine, we believe that prevention is the key to reducing the burden of CVD and improving overall health and maximizing longevity. Our functional medicine approach to cardiovascular disease prevention is personalized, integrative, and evidence-informed, allowing us to help our patients achieve optimal cardiovascular health and live healthier, happier lives.
Our treatment approach to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease prevention is multimodal and includes:
1.) Comprehensive Lipid Screening: Dr. Wilson integrates comprehensive lipid screening with patients that includes in-depth biomarkers like ApoB, LPa, hsCRP, and sdLDL to help accurately assess an individuals CVD risk.
2.) Personalized Nutritional Protocols: Nutritional optimization is a key component to help mitigate an individuals CVD risk.
3.) Lifestyle Interventions: Personalized treatment plans often include an exercise prescription, stress management tactics, and sleep hygiene optimization to further improve CVD risk.
4.) Targeted Supplementation: If warranted, Dr. Wilson will integrate evidence-informed supplementation to decrease biomarkers like ApoB, LDL-c, and hsCRP.
EvoHealth Kansas Functional Medicine
Our approach to cardiovascular disease prevention is tailored to each individual patient, taking into account their unique needs and preferences. We use advanced diagnostic tools to assess cardiovascular health, and work with patients to develop personalized nutrition and exercise plans that are sustainable and effective.
At EvoHealth Kansas, we’re committed to helping our patients live healthier, happier lives by taking a proactive approach to cardiovascular disease prevention. If you’re ready to take control of your cardiovascular health, contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn how we can help you achieve optimal health and wellbeing.