Nonlipoprotein risk factors for coronary heart disease: Evaluation and management

Appropriate prevention and management of coronary heart disease (CHD) requires an integrated approach to the reduction of risk factors. These principally include reduction of elevated lipids, control of blood pressure, and cessation of smoking. In addition, appropriate exercise, diet, and weight reduction (where necessary) are also important. Control of diabetes and stress management may also be helpful. Aspirin therapy is appropriate for all patients with known CHD and selected patients without CHD who have several risk factors, including nonmodifiable risk factors such as age, a positive family history, and male gender.