Analysis of cardiovascular risk stratification and achievement of LDL-cholesterol therapeutic targets in a public university hospital cardiology outpatient clinic

Introduction: Cardiovascular risk stratification plays a crucial role in the early identification and effective prevention of adverse cardiovascular events. Clinical studies highlight statins as the primary therapy for reducing the incidence of cardiovascular events. Objective: To evaluate the adequacy of treatment for patients using statins according to therapeutic goals suggested by the cardiovascular risk calculator. Methods: This is a retrospective study that analyzed medical records of patients undergoing statin treatment at a university cardiology outpatient clinic in a state capital between 2022 and 2023. Cardiovascular risk was calculated using the Brazilian Society of Cardiology tool, and the prescription was compared with the guidelines of the mentioned society to assess treatment compliance. Results: The sample consisted of 35 medical records. The majority were male (71%) with a mean age of 67 years. The most commonly used medication was simvastatin (51%) at 40 mg. The most prevalent comorbidity was hypertension (100%), and sedentary lifestyle stood out (67%). Regarding cardiovascular risk, 54% had a very high risk, and 46% had a high risk. The mean LDL was 74, with the majority of patients not meeting therapeutic goals (74%), and there was no change in medication for 91%. Conclusion: The findings of the study highlight the need for rigorous management strategies and adjustment of patients' LDL-c levels to the therapeutic goal in the studied cardiology outpatient clinic.