Genetic advances in coronary artery disease.

Traditionally, many health care providers consider clinical genetics to be a field that only applies to specialists who provide services to individuals with rare single-gene or chromosomal disorders. But this concept is changing rapidly. In the year 2000, nine of the ten leading causes of mortality, including heart disease, have identified genetic components. As patient advocates and health care providers, nurses have a responsibility to become familiar with genetic advances and translate this knowledge into improved individualized care for patients.