Achieving equitable access to incretin-based therapies in cardiovascular care

Abstract

The role of incretin-based therapies, including glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP1RAs) and dual GLP-1/glucose-dependent insulinotropic polypeptide (GIP) receptor agonists, in the management of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) and obesity has been increasingly recognized, along with significant cardiovascular (CV) benefits. Despite the clinical efficacy of incretin-based therapies, high costs, suboptimal access, limited insurance coverage, and therapeutic inertia present substantial barriers to widespread adoption. Overcoming these obstacles is essential for the equitable initiation, access, and utilization of incretin-based therapies. Clinicians must make targeted efforts to ensure health equity in the use of these and other advanced therapies.

Keywords

• Incretin-based therapy
• Obesity
• Diabetes
• Hypertension
• Cardiovascular disease
• Racial/ethnic disparities