What is the first-line therapy for women and men under 75 years old with clinical ASCVD?

The first-line therapy for women and men under 75 years old with clinical atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is high-intensity statin therapy. This recommendation is based on guidelines that emphasize the role of high-intensity statins in significantly reducing LDL cholesterol levels and decreasing the risk of cardiovascular events in individuals with established heart disease.

High-intensity statins, such as atorvastatin (80 mg) or rosuvastatin (20 mg), are specifically designed to lower LDL cholesterol by 50% or more. This substantial reduction in cholesterol is vital for patients with a history of cardiovascular conditions, as it directly correlates with improved outcomes and reduced mortality rates due to cardiovascular events.

Moreover, the initiation of high-intensity statin therapy reflects the understanding that individuals under 75 years old with clinical ASCVD generally possess a higher burden of cardiovascular risk factors, necessitating aggressive management to mitigate further complications. Thus, high-intensity statin therapy plays a crucial role in primary prevention strategies in this demographic.