01 Expansion of Lipoprotein(a)-Targeted Therapies for Residual Cardiovascular RiskThe atherosclerosis market analysis shows a shift toward therapies that target lipoprotein(a), a genetically influenced blood lipid associated with cardiovascular risk. Pharmaceutical companies are developing treatments that aim to reduce lipoprotein(a) levels in patients whose risk remains high despite standard lipid-lowering therapy. This approach broadens treatment research beyond conventional cholesterol management.
02 Development of Intravascular Imaging Systems for Plaque CharacterizationMedical device manufacturers are refining intravascular ultrasound and optical coherence tomography systems to assess plaque structure within coronary arteries. These technologies help clinicians examine plaque composition, vessel dimensions, and features associated with plaque instability. Their use supports more detailed assessment of coronary artery disease and guidance during selected interventions.
01 Supply chain disruptions are expected to have a moderate impact on the atherosclerosis market share due to its direct exposure to active pharmaceutical ingredients, statins, cholesterol-lowering medicines, and specialized treatments. A capacity-constrained recovery is a suitable assumption because ingredient shortages, production delays, and strict quality requirements can limit medicine availability and slow the expansion of treatment options across healthcare systems. These constraints could reduce the market’s projected compound annual growth rate from 3.25% to 1.75%, a decline of 1.50 percentage points. As supply conditions normalize, the atherosclerosis market growth is expected to gradually return to 3.25%.
01 The atherosclerosis market forecasts investment in plaque-targeting therapies, cholesterol-lowering medicines, and diagnostic technologies that help identify and manage arterial disease.In September 2026, Elucid announced a Series D financing round to accelerate the commercialization of its artificial intelligence-powered cardiovascular imaging platform, expand strategic partnerships, and advance technologies used to assess coronary plaque and cardiovascular risk.
01 Demand for Advanced Diagnostic Imaging Technologies and Focus on Reducing Heart Attack Drives MarketAdvances in CT angiography, carotid ultrasound, and intravascular imaging allow clinicians to identify arterial plaque, evaluate blood flow, and assess the severity of atherosclerosis. These technologies provide valuable information for diagnosis, disease monitoring, and treatment planning. Hospitals and diagnostic centers rely on such tools to guide clinical decisions, which supports demand across the atherosclerosis market.Heart attacks and strokes linked to atherosclerosis have prompted greater attention to cardiovascular prevention and long-term disease management. Statins, other lipid-lowering medicines, blood pressure control, and suitable vascular procedures play an important role in reducing risk among eligible patients. This focus on preventing serious cardiovascular events encourages the use of effective atherosclerosis therapies and supports market growth.
01 Residual Cardiovascular Risk and Statin Intolerance Restrain Market ExpansionSome patients continue to face cardiovascular risks despite treatment that lowers low-density lipoprotein cholesterol, particularly when inflammation, diabetes, or other risk factors remain poorly controlled. This residual risk can require additional medicines alongside standard lipid-lowering therapy, increasing treatment complexity and costs while limiting the effectiveness of single-drug approaches across patient groups.Statin-associated muscle symptoms and other adverse effects can prevent some patients from reaching recommended cholesterol targets. Dose reductions, treatment discontinuation, or switches to alternative therapies can disrupt long-term disease management and complicate medication selection.
01 Atherosclerosis Screening for Living Organ Donors and Plaque Monitoring in Cancer Survivors Create Opportunities for Market PlayersPre-transplant cardiovascular assessment offers a specialized opportunity for diagnostic device manufacturers and imaging providers. Living organ donors may require detailed vascular evaluation before surgery, particularly when hidden arterial plaque could affect procedural safety. Imaging tools that assess plaque location, arterial narrowing, and vessel-wall condition could support more precise donor screening and surgical planning.Long-term cardiovascular monitoring for cancer survivors presents another niche opportunity for pharmaceutical companies and diagnostic developers. Some cancer treatments can affect cardiovascular health, while existing risk factors may contribute to atherosclerosis over time. Follow-up programs that combine vascular imaging, lipid assessment, and individualized risk tracking could help clinicians identify arterial changes and guide preventive care after cancer treatment.
September 2026 Novartis announced Phase 3 results for pelacarsen, an investigational therapy targeting elevated lipoprotein.
August 2026 Eli Lilly received United States Food and Drug Administration approval to expand Mounjaro (tirzepatide) use to reduce major cardiovascular event risk.
July 2026 The United States Food and Drug Administration approved Lipfendra (enlicitide), the first oral proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitor.