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Karen Patton Alexander

Professor of Medicine
Medicine, Cardiology
Duke Box 3411, Durham, NC 27710
Durham Centre, Durham, NC 27701

Overview


My research focus is on cardiovascular disease management and outcomes in special populations, specifically older adults. Historically there has been a lack of randomized controlled data regarding treatment efficacy and outcomes in this growing population. Because of this, certain therapies may have different risk benefit profiles, which may cause physicians to alter their therapeutic interventions. My research explores evidence based treatment for older adults, including preferences and decision-making as well as frailty and aging assessments in clinical trials and registries. Diagnosis and management of stable ischemic heart disease is also an area of focus.

Current Appointments & Affiliations


Professor of Medicine · 2015 - Present Medicine, Cardiology, Medicine
Member in the Duke Clinical Research Institute · 1995 - Present Duke Clinical Research Institute, Institutes and Centers

In the News


Published August 22, 2022
Could a Common Heart Medication Prevent Dementia?
Published November 10, 2015
Angioplasty Procedure Reduces Need for Additional Drug Even When Blockages Remain

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Recent Publications


Advancing Age and Risk From the Elevated Atherogenic Index: Triglyceride (TG) to High-Density Cholesterol (HDL-C) Ratio.

Journal Article J Am Geriatr Soc · June 29, 2025 BACKGROUND: Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is associated with atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), but this association diminishes with age. The triglyceride (TG) to high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) ratio, also known as ... Full text Link to item Cite

Development and Validation of Models to Estimate the Incident Risk of Cognitive Impairment and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in Older Adults.

Journal Article J Am Heart Assoc · June 3, 2025 BACKGROUND: Guidelines emphasize using atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) risk prediction models for treatment decisions, but risk of cognitive impairment is an equally important concern in older adults. Current ASCVD risk prediction models wer ... Full text Link to item Cite
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Recent Grants


PREVENTABLE

ResearchPrincipal Investigator · Awarded by National Institutes of Health · 2019 - 2027

PREVENTABLE Trial Partnership and Meeting Support

ConferencePrincipal Investigator · Awarded by Alzheimer's Association · 2024 - 2025

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Education, Training & Certifications


Duke University · 1992 M.D.