GBinsight Genetic Medicine Series: Solving Clinical Dilemmas – Genetic Testing – Dr. Arthur Agatston

Arthur Agatston, MD, FACC*, discusses:
–The role of HDL and HDL-C in atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases.
–What influence does HDL dysfunction have on ASCVD risk?
–Does HDL dysfunction affect risk in people with familial hypercholesterolemia? *

Dr. Arthur Agatston is a true pioneer in the study and practice of cardiovascular medicine. Dr. Agatston developed a non-invasive method of quantifying calcified atherosclerotic plaque using computed tomography (CT) that is known as the “Agatston Score” (also known as the coronary artery calcium score). Dr. Agatston has co-authored over 200 scientific papers and is a New York Times best-selling author on nutrition. Dr. Agatston is currently principal clinician and Chief Executive Officer at The Agatston Center for Preventive Medicine in South Florida. For his contributions to medicine, Dr. Agatston has been recognized by Time magazine as one of the “Time 100” most influential individuals.

In this presentation, Dr. Arthur Agatston discusses the integration of genetic testing into cardiovascular medicine. He emphasizes how genetic insights, combined with advanced imaging techniques, can significantly improve early detection and personalized treatment of cardiovascular diseases. He also highlights how genetic testing can uncover specific genetic mutations, such as those affecting cholesterol metabolism, which influence the development and progression of atherosclerosis. He presents several case studies to illustrate the practical application of genetic testing in identifying individuals at risk for cardiovascular events, despite having normal or even seemingly protective biomarkers like high HDL levels. These cases demonstrated how genetic variations could affect cholesterol transport and metabolism, influencing the development of plaque in arteries. Dr. Agatston also discusses the importance of early detection and aggressive treatment to prevent cardiovascular events, particularly in individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia or other genetic predispositions. He concludes by underscoring the potential of genetic testing, alongside traditional risk assessment tools, in enhancing preventive cardiology and improving patient outcomes.