Emerging evidence shows watchful waiting may be too risky for severe AS

"Watch and wait" may seem safe—but with severe AS, it's a gamble. Once symptoms appear, the risk of sudden cardiac death increases sharply and the window for intervention narrows. Early detection and timely referral are critical to improving outcomes. The most at-risk patient is the one who seems fine, until they're not.

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Severe AS doesn’t discriminate. Mortality risk is high across populations

Patients from underserved groups—including women, individuals in lower-income households, and those from certain racial or ethnic backgrounds—are less likely to be diagnosed with severe AS or referred for treatment, putting them at greater risk for poor outcomes.

WATCH: The importance of referring your severe AS patients at the right time

Dr. Thourani discusses the crucial necessity of promptly partnering with a Heart Valve Team.

Accurate assessments enable lifesaving intervention

Routine heart valve screenings and timely referral for an echocardiogram are crucial for accurately assessing disease severity. These steps guide critical clinical decisions and enable interventions that can prevent a rapid deterioration in patient health and save lives.

View the Benefits of Early Detection
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See the Impact of Disease Progression on Your Patients

Severe AS can escalate quickly, putting patients at serious risk, often without warning.

Know the Risks
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Find Helpful Resources

Access practical tools and educational materials to support your clinical decision-making.

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