What is Acute Coronary Syndrome?

Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS) refers to a range of conditions associated with sudden, reduced blood flow to the heart. This can lead to chest pain (angina), heart attack, or other serious heart conditions.

Symptoms of Acute Coronary Syndrome May Include:

• Chest pain or discomfort, often described as pressure or tightness
• Shortness of breath
• Sweating or clamminess
• Nausea or vomiting
• Lightheadedness or dizziness

Facts About Acute Coronary Syndrome

• ACS is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide.
• Prompt treatment can significantly improve outcomes and reduce the risk of complications.

Who is at Risk for Acute Coronary Syndrome?

Risk factors for acute coronary syndrome may include:

• Genetics: A family history of heart disease increases the risk of ACS.
• Sex: Men are at a higher risk of ACS at a younger age, but the risk increases for women after menopause.
• Age: The risk of ACS increases with age, particularly after 45 for men and 55 for women.
• Race or Ethnicity: African Americans have a higher risk of developing ACS.
• Environment: Lifestyle factors such as smoking, poor diet, and lack of exercise contribute significantly.
• Other Risk Factors: High blood pressure, high cholesterol, diabetes, and obesity are key contributors to ACS.

How Many Americans Have Acute Coronary Syndrome?

Each year, more than 1 million Americans experience a new or recurrent acute coronary syndrome event.

Diagnosis & Management

ACS is diagnosed through physical exams, ECGs, blood tests (such as troponin levels), and imaging tests like angiograms. Rapid diagnosis and treatment are critical to improving survival and outcomes.

Treatment Options for Acute Coronary Syndrome

Medical and Pharmaceutical Treatments

• Medications: Antiplatelets, anticoagulants, beta-blockers, and statins are commonly used in ACS management.
• Procedures: Coronary angioplasty and stenting, or coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG), may be required to restore blood flow.

Lifestyle Interventions

• Dietary Changes: A heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, cholesterol, and sodium is crucial.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity helps improve heart function and overall cardiovascular health.
• Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking dramatically reduces the risk of future ACS events.

Have You Been Diagnosed with Acute Coronary Syndrome (ACS)?

At Clinical Investigation Specialists, Inc. (CIS Research), our mission is to advance medical care for adults through innovative clinical research. You may be an eligible candidate for a clinical trial researching treatment options. For more information on currently enrolling clinical trials, click here.

Resources

• Acute Coronary Syndrome | American Heart Association
• Acute coronary syndrome - Symptoms and causes - Mayo Clinic

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