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Saher Taj Shiza

University of Connecticut & Hartford Hospital, USA

Presentation Title:

Cholesterol management in cardiovascular disease prevention and treatment

Abstract

Cholesterol management is a crucial aspect of preventing cardiovascular disease (cvd), a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (ldl-c) are a major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ascvd). Effective management of cholesterol levels can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
 
Treatment strategies
Several treatment strategies are available for cholesterol management, including:
 
1. *statins*: hmg-coa reductase inhibitors that reduce ldl-c production in the liver. Statins are the primary treatment for hypercholesterolemia and have been shown to reduce cardiovascular events.
2. *ezetimibe*: a cholesterol absorption inhibitor that reduces ldl-c levels by inhibiting intestinal cholesterol absorption. Often used in combination with statins.
3. *bempedoic acid*: an atp citrate lyase inhibitor that reduces ldl-c production in the liver. Used for patients who cannot tolerate statins or require additional ldl-c reduction.
4. *pcsk9 inhibitors (pcsk9i)*: monoclonal antibodies that target pcsk9, a protein that degrades ldl receptors in the liver. Pcsk9i increase ldl receptor density, reducing ldl-c levels.
5. *inclisiran*: a small interfering rna (sirna) that targets pcsk9 mrna, reducing pcsk9 protein production and increasing ldl receptor density.
 
Stepwise approach
A stepwise approach to cholesterol management is recommended, with treatment intensity and medication selection based on individual patient risk and ldl-c levels. This approach includes:
 
1. Lifestyle modifications (diet, exercise, weight loss)
2. Statin therapy
3. Addition of ezetimibe or bempedoic acid for further ldl-c reduction
4. Pcsk9i or inclisiran for high-risk patients or those with refractory hypercholesterolemia
 
Good outcomes
With a stepwise approach and the use of newer drugs, good outcomes can be achieved in cholesterol management. These include:
 
1. Significant reductions in ldl-c levels
2. Reduced risk of cardiovascular events (myocardial infarction, stroke, cardiovascular death)
3. Improved patient outcomes and quality of life
 
By adopting a comprehensive and individualized approach to cholesterol management, healthcare providers can reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease and improve patient outcomes.

Biography

Saher Shiza is a globally experienced cardiology specialist with a strong background in clinical cardiology and preventive medicine. A graduate of Deccan College of Medical Sciences, she worked as a cardiology specialist in India and Saudi Arabia for 8 years before pursuing advanced training in the US.
 
Saher Shiza holds a Postgraduate Program in Clinical Cardiology from Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and a Fellowship in Preventive Cardiology from the Indian Medical Association. Currently, they are a Preventive Cardiology Fellow at the University of Connecticut, following a stint in Internal Medicine Residency in New York.
 
A recipient of the prestigious Trudy Bush Award for research in women's cardiovascular health, she is dedicated to studying cardiovascular disease behavior in vulnerable populations. Her passion lies in advancing preventive strategies and reducing cardiovascular risk. With a strong commitment to cardiovascular health, Dr.Saher Shiza aims to make impactful contributions to the field through research, education, and clinical practice. Their work is driven by a vision of achieving global cardiovascular safety and promoting health equity.