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Primary prevention statin — USMLE Step 3 MCQ

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ModeratePreventive Medicine, Epidemiology, BiostatisticsPrimary prevention statinUSMLE Step 3

A 56-year-old man has LDL 142 mg/dL, hypertension, and a 10-year ASCVD risk of 12%. He has no diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Lifestyle measures are reviewed. Which of the following is the most appropriate next step in management?

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Correct answer: A — Start a moderate-intensity statin after shared decision-making

Adults aged 40 to 75 with elevated 10-year ASCVD risk benefit from statin therapy for primary prevention after risk discussion.

Reference: ACC/AHA Cholesterol Guideline; USPSTF Statin Use Recommendation