[Prevention of cardiovascular disease in the elderly].

PREVENTION OF STROKE: Several preventive strategies have been found to be effective for the prevention of stroke in elderly subjects, including treatment of high blood pressure, oral anticoagulants in case of atrial fibrillation, aspirin for subjects at risk. PREVENTION OF MYOCARDIAL INFARCTION: Anti-hypertension treatment and aspirin for at risk subjects have been proven effective. For elderly subjects who have had a myocardial infarction, beta-blockers and converting enzyme inhibitors are effective in case of altered left ventricular function. The importance of lowering cholesterol levels in the elderly is a subject of debate. In coronary artery disease patients, at least up to the age of 75 years, statins can reduce the risk of a coronary event and stroke. GENERAL MEASURES: Exposure to tobacco smoke and sedentary lifestyle are associated with increased cardiovascular risk in the elderly. Stopping smoking and regular physical exercise should be advised for the elderly. The cardiovascular benefit of hormone replacement therapy after menopause is not clearly established and is the object of ongoing research.