Absolute cardiovascular disease risk is a person’s probability of developing cardiovascular disease in the next five years, based on a range of risk factors.

Cardiovascular disease is largely preventable, with modifiable CVD risk factors accounting for up to 90% of the risk of myocardial infarction. The likelihood of developing CVD within a given period of time depends on the cumulative risk of the identified risk factors and not any single risk factor.

Clinical decisions based on absolute cardiovascular disease risk levels can lead to improved health outcomes, because they direct the right treatments to those who may benefit most.

Download the Absolute CVD Risk Guidelines(PDF)

How were the guidelines developed?

The Absolute CVD Risk Guidelines were developed by the National Stroke Foundation on behalf of the National Vascular Disease Prevention Alliance (NVDPA) with partner agencies and expert clinicians. NVDPA is an alliance of the National Heart Foundation, Diabetes Australia, Kidney Health Australia and the National Stroke Foundation; and is endorsed by the Royal Australian College of General Practitioners (RACGP). Further information about the guideline development process can be found within the guidelines.

What’s in the guidelines?

Clinical assessment and management of CVD risk
Lifestyle modifications to prevent CVD
How to incorporate the Australian absolute CVD Risk Calculator into clinical decision-making
Treatment and management methods according to individual’s risk of developing CVD.

Risk Management Summary

The Risk Management Summary helps healthcare professionals identify the right steps, depending on whether their patient has a low, moderate or high risk of having a CVD event in the next five years. Use the table below to develop a management plan for your patients.

CVD Risk Assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults

In March 2020, a consensus statement was also published on CVD risk assessment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander adults under the age of 35.

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Coronary artery calcium scoring

The National Heart Foundation of Australia has published a position statement on coronary artery calcium scoring for the primary prevention of CVD. This position statement provides practical advice for health professionals on the use of coronary artery calcium scoring to assist in defining risk, in conjunction with absolute CVD risk assessment.

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