[ANMCO Position paper: ANMCO States General 2024 - In the era of precision cardiology, a reflection on the balance between cost containment and innovation].

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases continue to be the leading cause of death worldwide, with ischemic heart disease remaining the primary cause among cardiovascular conditions; as is well known, it is closely linked to LDL cholesterol levels, now identified as the "cause" of atherosclerotic plaque development and not just a risk factor. The recent introduction of increasingly powerful lipid-lowering drugs makes it more realistic today to achieve the desired LDL targets, and the evolution of therapeutic strategies allows for more personalized care by tailoring treatments to the specific profile of each patient. There are also high expectations for therapies, currently under evaluation, aimed at other potential targets contributing to atherosclerotic disease, such as lipoprotein(a) and interleukin-6. However, these new and potent therapies also have a significant economic impact, making it essential for scientific societies to thoughtfully consider how to manage resources to ensure equitable care. Likely, the use of digital tools can support a balanced and cost-effective management approach.