Program for Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Therapies

The Program for Atherosclerosis and Cardiovascular Therapies (PACT), based at Stanford Hospital and Clinics, is an integrated program of aggressive behavioral and medical therapy. 

It is designed for patients with established cardiovascular disease and those who have modifiable risk factors for cardiovascular or cerebrovascular events. This program is an expansion of the Stanford Preventive Cardiology Clinic, which was established nearly thirty years ago by John W. Farquhar, M.D.

Recent clinical trials have definitely shown that reducing cholesterol levels prevents cardiovascular disease and lowers total mortality. Other studies, conducted over several decades, using multiple research methods confirm the evidence linking risk factors and cardiovascular disease. Angiographic and functional studies in atherosclerosis confirm that aggressive risk factor modification retards the progression of vascular disease and stabilizes vulnerable plaque. Comprehensive risk assessment and therapy is now recognized as an integral part of the care for patients with cardiovascular disease and those at high risk.

Program Goals

There is a large population of at-risk patients who currently do not have access to the clinical resources for optimal management of the factors that promote cardiovascular diseases. The goal of PACT is to comprehensively evaluate these patients and to provide them with the most effective measures to impede the progression of atherosclerosis. Multiple treatment modalities are explored for every patient to determine the optimum approach. Patients also have access to research protocols and clinical trials.

Program Highlights

The program is designed for people who have a history of heart disease, are at risk for heart disease or simply want to know their risk for future cardiovascular events. The services available include:

• Integrated approach to the aggressive control of all risk factors with an emphasis on cholesterol and blood pressure
• Intensive education to promote a heart-healthy lifestyle
• Individualized nutrition assessment, education and support services
• Smoking cessation referrals
• Specialized cholesterol and lipoprotein measurements
• State-of-the-art catheter and surgical interventions
• Access to experimental programs with emerging technologies for patients with complex disease

			The Annual PACT Symposiums at the Fairchild Auditorium are  always well attended

Faculty and Staff

Stanley G. Rockson, M.D., Director

Stephen P. Fortmann, M.D.

John W. Farquhar, M.D.

Gerald Reaven, M.D. Professor of Medicine, Active Emeritus

Mary Ann Champagne, R.N., M.S.N

Jane Borchers, M.P.H., R.D.

For Referral or Program Information

Please contact us at (650) 725-6954.

PACT
Stanford Hospital and Clinics
300 Pasteur Drive, Room A265, Stanford, CA 94305 -5406