Multiple biomarker assessment in primary prevention of cardiovascular disease

Abstract

There is room for improving current risk stratification tools for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD). disease (CVD). Integrating the measurement of multiple biomarkers into a single risk assessment algorithm, a strategy increasingly being used in acute cardiovascular care settings, also has promise for primary prevention. A number of novel biomarkers, including natriuretic peptides, sensitive cardiac troponins, and high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, have successfully been incorporated into multimarker panels that can improve traditional CVD risk assessment measures, and new markers emerge regularly. Targeting the appropriate populations that are most likely to benefit from more advanced screening will be key to the success of a multimarker approach to preventing CVD. Studies evaluating specific combinations of biomarkers (with or without noninvasive tests of subclinical CVD), cost-effectiveness, and clinical outcomes are needed before a multiple biomarker approach to primary prevention of CVD can be widely advocated and implemented.