NOVEMBER 2022

PATH-WIDE STUDY ON CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE LEADS TO SEVERAL CONFERENCE PRESENTATIONS

This fall, researchers and internal medical residents are taking to stages, both local and international, to share the findings from a multi-site study of patients in our health systems with and at risk for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) and how they are treated to prevent or manage the condition. Heart disease is common and a major cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Real-world data regarding testing and treatment to prevent initial or recurrent cardiac events can help us understand how clinical guidelines translate into practice. This study, sponsored by an industry partner, is a starting point for understanding existing treatment patterns and identifying potential improvements for patients with risk factors for ASCVD.

All seven PaTH network sites contributed to this observational analysis, and their team members contributed as authors of four scientific abstracts. Internal Medicine physician-researcher Jonathan Arnold (UPMC McKeesport) was the study’s principal investigator; he mentored a team of four UPMC McKeesport Internal Medical residents to analyze and summarize the copious data in preparation of the abstracts. One abstract was accepted for oral presentation and two were accepted for poster presentation at the Scientific Sessions meeting of the American Heart Association taking place in Chicago from November 5-7. Three abstracts were presented with posters at the 2022 American College of Physicians Western PA Region Abstract Competition held October 15, 2022, at UPMC McKeesport. We are proud to share that the abstract “Practical adherence to AHA/ACC 2018 guidelines among secondary prevention patients” by lead author Aleesha Kainat (UPMC) and 15 PaTH authors from across our network won the abstract competition.

Regarding this study and the mentoring process, Dr. Arnold said, “Having the opportunity to mentor residents through this PaTH research is an invaluable opportunity, and it provides residents with experience with research and exposure in the broader medical community.”