AstraZeneca has said more needs to be done to educate Americans about the risks of atherosclerosis.
The call to action followed the results of a survey, conducted by the company, that showed 20 per cent of adults in the US consider themselves at risk of the condition – a progressive disease where plaque builds up in the arteries.
Despite this concern, the survey also found that only 21 per cent of respondents were able to identify all six atherosclerosis risk factors – high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, family history of heart disease, smoking and obesity.
The comments from the London-headquartered company coincide with American Heart Month (February).
“Heart Month is an ideal time for patients to reflect upon their health and talk with their doctors to learn about the risk factors for plaque build up in arteries and whether they may be at increased risk of atherosclerosis,” said Dr Philip de Vane, executive director of medical affairs and strategic development, AstraZeneca.
“This education can be extremely valuable for adults, particularly those who are unaware of their increased risk and may help mitigate the progression of this disease”.
The company has produced the Cholesterol Roadmap, which allows patients to learn more about personal health factors, track their cholesterol and set goals to help reduce the build up of plaque in arteries.