Our scientific discoveries surrounding a compound called nitric oxide over the past 15 years have completely changed the way scientists and physicians consider possible causes, treatment and prevention of cardiovascular disease. The belief now is that a deficiency in nitric oxide production may lead to the development of hypertension, atherosclerosis, coronary artery disease, stroke, diabetes, and other common diseases. Current research indicates that appropriate nitric oxide drugs may be of great therapeutic benefit to patients with these disorders.

Understanding the human genome will allow us to identify individuals who are at risk for developing any cardiovascular disease of genetic origin. With such information, appropriate therapy with suitable nitric oxide drugs could commence early in life, well before the onset of any symptoms. The next five to 10 years will see the introduction of many new and effective nitric oxide drugs for the prevention and treatment of cardiovascular disease. I also believe that we will begin to see a decline in the number of deaths attributed to cardiovascular disease within the next decade.