Heart rate as a risk factor in cardiovascular disease

Resting heart rate has been shown in many studies to be an independent risk factor post‐ MI, in stable coronary artery disease and in heart failure. Despite this, heart rate is often not measured or considered when managing patients with cardiovascular disease. In this Expert Panel Discussion, the panel looks at the evidence for the association between heart rate and cardiovascular risk, and discusses current management guidelines and how the focus on this risk factor could be increased. Copyright © 2010 Wiley Interface Ltd