New ACC Scientific Statement on Antiplatelet Therapy in Atherosclerotic Diseases

Clinical Takeaway

: The underlying disease and patient-specific risks for future thrombotic events and bleeding are key factors for shared decision-making.

An overview of Antiplatelet Therapy in the Management of Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease: 2026 ACC Scientific Statement

Background

This scientific statement updates recommendations for managing antiplatelet therapy in patients with acute coronary syndromes (ACS), complementing the 2025 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guideline on ACS, but importantly, covers many additional atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ASCVD), including chronic coronary syndromes, peripheral artery disease (PAD), and carotid artery disease.

Key Recommendations

Primary prevention of ASCVD

The net benefit of aspirin therapy is limited. Low-dose aspirin is recommended for primary prevention among individuals aged 40 to 70 years…

Reviewing Author

Behnood Bikdeli, M.D., M.S.

Disclosures

Grant/Research SupportBrigham and Women’s Hospital; American Heart Association and VIVA Physicians

Editorial BoardsThrombosis Research; Thrombosis and Haemostasis; Journal of the American College of Cardiology

Leadership Positions in Professional SocietiesSociety for Vascular Medicine (Research, Quality, and Publications Committee member); International Society on Thrombosis and Haemostasis