The accredited CME learning activity based on this article is offered under the auspices of the CE department of the University of Toronto. Participating physicians are entitled to one (1) MAINPRO-M1 credit by completing this program, found online at www.geriatricsandaging.ca/cme
Secondary prevention has been shown to decrease coronary artery disease morbidity and mortality by 20-25%. Exercise, smoking cessation, and management of dyslipidemia, hypertension, diabetes, and obesity, along with psychological therapies, are typical elements of secondary prevention programs offered by a multidisciplinary clinical team often including physicians, nurses, pharmacists, exercise physiologists, registered dieticians, and psychologists. Special considerations for older adults in a secondary prevention setting in reference to medications, exercise, diet, smoking cessation, and hypertension are addressed. Current practice guidelines and clinical trials are presented, along with practical tools for the primary care physician treating the older coronary artery disease patient.
Key words: multidisciplinary, cardiac rehabilitation, coronary artery disease, secondary prevention.
