Task Force on Strategic Research Direction: Population/Outcomes/Epidemiology/Social Science Subgroup key science topics report.

Abstract

Strategic research related to the prevention of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and improvement in quality of life encompasses a wide range of scientific disciplines. Experts from the fields of epidemiology, social sciences, health services and outcomes research, and preventive cardiology reached consensus with regard to five priority substantive areas of research to achieve the Healthy People 2010 objectives and to support the long-term goals and mission of the American Heart Association (AHA). The 2010 goals and objectives for heart disease and stroke are to guide the nation in achieving both increased quality and years of life and the elimination of health disparities among different segments of the population. Broadly, the Healthy People 2010 goals are prevention of the risk factors, detection and treatment of the risk factors, early identification and treatment of heart attacks and strokes, and prevention of recurrent cardiovascular events. Specific objectives include (but are not limited to) reduction in coronary heart disease mortality by 20%, reduction in stroke mortality by 20%, reduction in hospitalization rates for congestive heart failure by 50%, reduction in prevalence of high blood pressure to 16%, and reduction in prevalence of high total blood cholesterol concentration to 17%. Attainment of these goals and objectives will require increased investment of resources at the population level, through such strategies as are outlined below. Within each content area, the committee systematically identified specific research priorities using complementary scientific approaches: ### Prevention Research Priority Content Areas ### Subcategories of Priority Prevention Research Within each of the following categories, highest priority should be given to aspects closest to delivery of science to the population.