Toronto, ON, September 30, 2024 — Researchers at ICES and Women’s College Hospital are using health data to test the effectiveness of an online calculator aimed at improving cholesterol management among 40- to 75-year-olds at risk of heart disease.
High cholesterol is a very important risk factor for heart disease. However, many people have not had their cholesterol tested and may not be receiving recommended treatments to reduce their risk.
“Our goal is to empower patients to start a discussion with their doctor on how to manage their cholesterol levels and potentially improve their heart health in the future,” says Dr. Jacob Udell, a cardiologist with the Department of Medicine at Women’s College Hospital, clinician-scientist with the Women’s College Research Institute and adjunct scientist with ICES.
The calculator is a decision aid tool developed as part of the Community Heart Outcomes Improvement and Cholesterol Education Study (CHOICES), which aims to determine if a toolbox of cholesterol management strategies can improve the use of statins (medications that lower cholesterol) in adults who are at higher risk for heart disease.
When using the calculator, individuals are asked a series of questions about their cholesterol levels, general heart health, and any preexisting conditions. The calculator then produces a risk score which will help users understand their heart disease risk. Individuals can also consent to have their de-identified information be used for research with ICES.
“By collecting and analyzing health data from across the province, we can monitor statin use and heart health outcomes, which will allow us to identify gaps and potential areas for improvement,” says Udell.
Users of the tool are also provided with educational resources to help them make a decision with their doctor on whether a cholesterol-lowering medication is an option.
To use the calculator visit: Canheart.app
ICES is an independent, not-for-profit research and analytics institute that uses population-based health information to produce knowledge on a broad range of healthcare issues, leading cutting-edge studies and analyses evaluating healthcare policy, delivery, and population outcomes. ICES knowledge is highly regarded in Canada and abroad and is widely used by government, hospitals, planners, and practitioners to make decisions about healthcare delivery and to develop policy. For the latest ICES news, visit our website www.ices.on.ca and follow us on X, formerly Twitter: @ICESOntario
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION PLEASE CONTACT:
Misty Pratt
Senior Communications Associate, ICES
[email protected]