American Board of Internal Medicine (ABIM) Certification Practice Exam

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Study for the ABIM Certification Exam. Use flashcards and multiple choice questions, with hints and explanations for each. Get ready to succeed!

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According to the 2017 guidelines, how often should middle-aged adults without known cardiovascular risk factors undergo cholesterol screening?

  1. Every year

  2. Every 1 to 2 years

  3. Every 3 years

  4. Every 5 years

The correct answer is: Every 1 to 2 years

The 2017 guidelines recommend that middle-aged adults without known cardiovascular risk factors should undergo cholesterol screening every 1 to 2 years. This recommendation is based on evidence suggesting that regular monitoring of lipid levels can help identify individuals at risk for cardiovascular disease, allowing for early intervention and management. For middle-aged adults, particularly those aged 40 to 75, assessing cholesterol levels is crucial since the risk of cardiovascular events tends to increase with age. The screening interval of 1 to 2 years balances the need for monitoring with the potential burden of unnecessary testing, particularly for individuals who have no existing cardiovascular risk factors. Regular assessment every few years ensures that any changes in lipid profiles can be addressed promptly, especially considering the evolving nature of cardiovascular risk factors as individuals age.