Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Disease: Evolving Pharmacological Interventions

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) encompass a group of disorders affecting the heart and blood vessels, including arteries and veins responsible for supplying oxygen to vital organs such as the brain and heart. Insufficient oxygen supply to these organs can lead to severe complications, including tissue damage and organ failure. CVDs are primarily associated with aging and are often linked to the development of atherosclerotic lesions, which can result in life-threatening conditions such as myocardial infarction, ischemic cardiomyopathy, stroke, and peripheral arterial disease. Atherosclerosis, a chronic and progressive condition, remains a major contributor to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality worldwide. Pharmacological interventions for CVD primarily focus on managing risk factors and preventing disease progression. Among available treatments, statins serve as the first-line therapy for reducing low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) levels and lowering the risk of major cardiovascular events. However, a subset of patients fails to achieve target LDL-C levels due to poor adherence or statin resistance. The identification of high-risk individuals and the implementation of personalized treatment strategies remain crucial in optimizing cardiovascular care. This review explores current pharmacological approaches to CVD management, highlighting the efficacy and limitations of existing therapies. Additionally, potential advancements in cardiovascular treatment are discussed, aiming to enhance risk assessment and improve therapeutic outcomes.