[Global cardiovascular risk: definition, evaluation and management strategies. Round table no. 1. XV].

The global cardiovascular risk is the probability of developing a cardiovascular disease within a defined period of time, taking into account several risk factors simultaneously. Born 50 years ago with the analytical epidemiology of cardiovascular diseases, this concept may be considered today as a potential prevention tool integrating the multifactorial aspect of these diseases. Its implementation in clinical practice raises numerous questions related to its estimation, practical use and consequences for the health system. This new approach to cardiovascular diseases does not aim to cure a complaint but to try to avoid its appearance by means of restricting measures. This will modify the relationships between physician and patient and will imply major modifications of our treatment habits. For this strategy to be effective three main prerequisites are needed: management choices will have to be the result of a deal between the patient and the physician, the responsibility for decisions will be endorsed by both of them, and the actions should be maintained over time.