Family history of premature cardiovascular disease as risk factor for recurrent coronary artery disease: a retrospective cohort study

Introduction: Patients with a genetic predisposition – as identified by a positive family history - for premature coronary artery disease (CAD) differ in phenotype and risk factor load compared to those without such predisposition. However, these groups receive the same preventive medical regimen. It is unclear whether this results in an increased risk for recurrent CAD in those with a genetic predisposition to premature CAD. Methods: We retrospectively investigated 2,756 patients with premature CAD (event