Adverse consequences of the 50% misconception.

It is often claimed that only 50% of the incidence of coronary artery disease in the population can be attributed to the standard major risk factors. A careful review of published research demonstrates that 75% to 90% of coronary artery disease incidence in a variety of populations is explained by the standard modifiable risk factors. In conclusion, these data suggest that a more rigorous focus on these conventional risk factors and the lifestyle behaviors that promote them has great potential to reduce the burden of coronary artery disease worldwide.