Trade Associations
Here's a look at documents from national and international trade associations
Featured Stories
NOAA Economic "Snapshot" of the U.S. Shrimp Industry
NEW PORT RICHEY, Florida, March 14 (TNSrpt) -- The Southern Shrimp Alliance issued the following news release:
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NOAA Economic "Snapshot" of the U.S. Shrimp Industry
In response to the newly released NOAA Fisheries report, Snapshot: Economics of the Gulf of America Federal Shrimp Fishery, the Southern Shrimp Alliance (SSA) is sounding the alarm, citing the federal agency's own data as irrefutable evidence that the American shrimp industry is in the midst of a policy-driven disaster.
The Crisis by the Numbers
NOAA's economists have now put hard numbers to a disaster that has been unfolding
... Show Full Article
NEW PORT RICHEY, Florida, March 14 (TNSrpt) -- The Southern Shrimp Alliance issued the following news release:
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NOAA Economic "Snapshot" of the U.S. Shrimp Industry
In response to the newly released NOAA Fisheries report, Snapshot: Economics of the Gulf of America Federal Shrimp Fishery, the Southern Shrimp Alliance (SSA) is sounding the alarm, citing the federal agency's own data as irrefutable evidence that the American shrimp industry is in the midst of a policy-driven disaster.
The Crisis by the Numbers
NOAA's economists have now put hard numbers to a disaster that has been unfoldingfor years:
* Revenue collapse: Total Gulf shrimp revenue fell more than 50 percent in just two years, from $489 million in 2021 to $221 million in 2023.
* Historic price lows: Adjusted for inflation, the average 2023 dockside price--under $2.00 per pound--was the lowest ever recorded, down from over $6.00 per pound in the 1980s.
* Negative margins: The federal fleet posted a negative 6.1% profit margin in 2023, leaving producers unable to reinvest in aging vessels and infrastructure.
* Job losses: An estimated 1,200 jobs were lost on federal shrimp vessels between 2021 and 2023 as active vessels dropped 19%.
"For more than two decades, America's shrimping families have been telling policymakers that it is economically unsustainable to compete against double standards and counterproductive policies," said Blake Price, director of the Southern Shrimp Alliance. "Give us a fair playing field, and we will win every time. Farm-raised shrimp from halfway across the world will never match the superior quality, and sustainable management of wild-caught shrimp from our local waters."
Inviting Fair Competition
American shrimpers have everything it takes to compete and win in a fair market. U.S. wild-caught shrimp is a sustainable product prized for its ocean-fresh flavor, natural firmness, and responsible harvesting. NOAA recognizes the U.S. shrimp industry as a world leader in shrimp trawl bycatch reduction. Consumer demand for local, naturally raised, and ethically produced seafood is growing, and no shrimp product fits that profile better than Gulf and South Atlantic shrimp.
The economic problem is not the product--it's the playing field. Foreign competitors in the largest shrimp-supplying countries benefit from government subsidies, hundreds of millions of dollars in development funding that U.S. taxpayers help finance, and illegal or unethical cost-cutting shortcuts--banned antibiotics, forced labor, and severe environmental harms. NOAA's data confirm that the only period of profitability for the Gulf fleet in the past two decades came when the federal government took meaningful action to offset unfair trade. Remove unfair and unethical shrimp from the U.S. market, and American shrimpers will deliver a fresh, better-tasting, high-quality protein product for consumers and good-paying jobs for coastal communities.
"When NOAA says the U.S. shrimp industry is consuming its own capital just to stay afloat, they are describing multigenerational shrimping families spending their life's savings waiting for Washington to act," said Price. "Shrimpers want to invest in their way of life so the trade and culture can be passed down to the next generation. They aren't afraid of a fair fight. But policymakers need to give them one."
The Mandate for Change: President Trump's Executive Order
President Trump's Executive Order Restoring American Seafood Competitiveness is clear: "The erosion of American seafood competitiveness at the hands of unfair foreign trade practices must end."
The U.S. shrimp industry is grateful for that directive to reverse counterproductive policies and end double standards. SSA will continue to work with federal officials, eager to see the mandate translated into concrete policy. The President has also signed an Executive Order to restore U.S. shipbuilding and working waterfronts that addresses additional barriers to investing in the U.S. shrimp industry.
Grounded in NOAA's data that clearly demonstrates the cost of inaction to American workers, the SSA calls on the Administration and Congress to act on these five priorities:
1. Enforce existing laws at the border. Drive aggressive enforcement against imports. Give FDA the authority to destroy hazardous imports, including shrimp contaminated with banned antibiotics and fungicides. Block market access to shrimp supply chains using IUU fishing or forced labor and fund the SIMP traceability program to back it up.
2. Stop funding our competitors. Pass the SOS Act to halt IFI financing of foreign shrimp aquaculture. The U.S. Treasury cast its first-ever vote against a shrimp aquaculture project last year. America needs to always use its voice and vote to stop non-market-based overproduction of shrimp.
3. Put import duties to work. Direct shrimp import duties toward increased FDA import testing, expanded USDA procurement of domestic shrimp, and a national marketing program that distinguishes American wild-caught shrimp from commodity imports.
4. Protect the 'U.S. wild-caught' label. SSA-funded genetic testing has found that the majority of shrimp sold as U.S. wild-caught in sampled coastal restaurants was actually farm-raised imports. State and federal agencies must enforce transparent country-of-origin and production-method labeling so consumers can trust what they buy.
5. Establish a national seafood office within USDA to make existing USDA programs accessible to the seafood industry, including the domestic shrimp sector.
"NOAA's clear documentation of the shrimp industry's attrition through 2023 should motivate government officials to act quickly," stated Price. "Ensuring that multigenerational fishing families continue to produce healthy protein is a matter of national food security. We look forward to a unified federal response to the counterproductive trade policies that have hindered U.S. shrimp and seafood production. Let's move America's fisheries from surviving to thriving."
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REPORT: https://www.fisheries.noaa.gov/s3//2026-03/Gulf-Shrimp-Economic-Snapshot-Report-Final-NMFS-SEFSC-795.pdf
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Original text here: https://shrimpalliance.com/noaa-economic-snapshot-of-the-u-s-shrimp-industry/
[Category: Food/Beverage]
NAR Statement on President Trump's Executive Order on Mortgage Lending
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- The National Association of Realtors posted the following statement:
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NAR Statement on President Trump's Executive Order on Mortgage Lending
Today, Shannon McGahn, executive vice president and chief advocacy officer of the National Association of Realtors(R), issued the following statement after the President Trump signed an executive order to reduce regulatory burdens that have driven up mortgage costs:
"The National Association of REALTORS(R) welcomes efforts to expand access to mortgage credit and ensure that qualified homebuyers are not unnecessarily shut out
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- The National Association of Realtors posted the following statement:
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NAR Statement on President Trump's Executive Order on Mortgage Lending
Today, Shannon McGahn, executive vice president and chief advocacy officer of the National Association of Realtors(R), issued the following statement after the President Trump signed an executive order to reduce regulatory burdens that have driven up mortgage costs:
"The National Association of REALTORS(R) welcomes efforts to expand access to mortgage credit and ensure that qualified homebuyers are not unnecessarily shut outof the market. Today's executive action by President Trump highlights the importance of reviewing regulatory barriers that can increase costs for borrowers and limit the ability of lenders to serve their local markets. We look forward to reviewing the executive order in more detail.
"REALTORS(R) know that access to affordable and responsible mortgage financing is essential to expanding homeownership and strengthening communities. As policymakers consider changes to the regulatory framework governing mortgage lending, it is critical that reforms both protect consumers and ensure that creditworthy buyers--particularly first-time buyers--have a clear path to homeownership.
"NAR looks forward to reviewing the proposals and to working with the Administration, Congress, and regulators to ensure that efforts to expand access to credit prove beneficial to consumers and are paired with policies that address the nation's housing supply challenges. Together, such efforts will help more Americans achieve the dream of homeownership."
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About the National Association of Realtors(R)
The National Association of Realtors(R) is involved in all aspects of residential and commercial real estate. The term Realtor(R) is a registered collective membership mark that identifies a real estate professional who is a member of the National Association of Realtors(R) and subscribes to its strict Code of Ethics. For free consumer guides about navigating the homebuying and selling transaction processes - from written buyer agreements to negotiating compensation - visit facts.realtor.
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Original text here: https://www.nar.realtor/newsroom/nar-statement-on-president-trumps-executive-order-on-mortgage-lending
[Category: Real Estate]
INCOMPAS Releases Statement on the Department of Energy's Investment in Critical Grid Infrastructure
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- INCOMPAS issued the following statement on March 13, 2026:
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INCOMPAS Releases Statement on the Department of Energy's Investment in Critical Grid Infrastructure
INCOMPAS, the competitive communications and AI infrastructure association, released the following statement applauding the U.S. Department of Energy's announcement of $1.9 billion in investment towards critical grid infrastructure to reduce electricity costs.
The following statement can be attributed to Staci L. Pies, Senior Vice President of Government Relations and Policy at INCOMPAS:
"INCOMPAS applauds
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- INCOMPAS issued the following statement on March 13, 2026:
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INCOMPAS Releases Statement on the Department of Energy's Investment in Critical Grid Infrastructure
INCOMPAS, the competitive communications and AI infrastructure association, released the following statement applauding the U.S. Department of Energy's announcement of $1.9 billion in investment towards critical grid infrastructure to reduce electricity costs.
The following statement can be attributed to Staci L. Pies, Senior Vice President of Government Relations and Policy at INCOMPAS:
"INCOMPAS applaudsthe Department of Energy's investment in critical grid infrastructure through the Speed to Power through Accelerated Reconductoring and other Key Advanced Transmission Technology Upgrades (SPARK) program. The companies building America's AI infrastructure, need a grid that can keep pace with rising electricity demands and resource adequacy needs. By prioritizing reconductoring and other advanced transmission technologies within existing rights-of-way, the SPARK program accelerates operational efficiency, while lowering prices for consumers.
We commend Secretary Wright and Assistant Secretary Jereza for advancing practical, high-impact solutions that meet the moment. Paired with historic private investment in AI infrastructure, this program moves America closer to the energy foundation our national AI competitiveness demands. INCOMPAS and its members look forward to working with federal and state leaders to ensure these investments reach the ground quickly and deliver for all Americans."
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Original text here: https://incompas.org/news-post/incompas-releases-statement-on-the-department-of-energys-investment-in-critical-grid-infrastructure/
[Category: Telecommunications]
Alliance Concerned by MedPAC's Misguided 2026 Home Health and Hospice Payment Recommendations
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, March 14 -- The National Alliance for Care at Home issued the following news release:
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Alliance Concerned by MedPAC's Misguided 2026 Home Health and Hospice Payment Recommendations
The National Alliance for Care at Home (the Alliance) is deeply concerned by the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission's (MedPAC) March 2026 Report to Congress: Medicare Payment Policy. MedPAC's congressionally mandated report provides analysis and recommendations on various Medicare programs, including home health and hospice. The Commission's findings focus on payment adequacy, access to
... Show Full Article
ALEXANDRIA, Virginia, March 14 -- The National Alliance for Care at Home issued the following news release:
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Alliance Concerned by MedPAC's Misguided 2026 Home Health and Hospice Payment Recommendations
The National Alliance for Care at Home (the Alliance) is deeply concerned by the Medicare Payment Advisory Commission's (MedPAC) March 2026 Report to Congress: Medicare Payment Policy. MedPAC's congressionally mandated report provides analysis and recommendations on various Medicare programs, including home health and hospice. The Commission's findings focus on payment adequacy, access tocare, quality, financial performance, and projections for 2026 and beyond. The Alliance previously expressed concern in response to MedPAC's vote in January 2026.
MedPAC's recommendations would significantly reduce home health payment rates by 7% for calendar year 2027 and eliminate payment updates for hospice care in fiscal year 2027. If implemented, these actions would further reduce access to care for vulnerable populations, at a time where demand for care at home is increasing.
The Alliance has continued to voice concerns with MedPAC's misguided recommendation since its January vote. In early January, the Alliance submitted a letter to MedPAC, emphasizing dangerous implications with these payment recommendations, particularly amidst a growing workforce crisis. The letter states, "recommendations to reduce the home health payment rates and to provide no payment updates for hospice care risk undermining provider capacity and patient access to services that are demonstrably cost-effective, align with patient and family preferences, and contribute to lower overall Medicare program spending."
"MedPAC's recommendation is dangerous and misguided, and would exacerbate a growing access crisis for care in the home. We know that cumulative year-after-year payment cuts have forced home health agencies to narrow service offerings, reduce service areas, and, at worst, close altogether. Last year, we saw CMS make adjustments to the Home Health Prospective Payment System (HH PPS) Final Rule for CY 2026 that appeared to signal concerns about access to care. However, we once again find ourselves facing recommended payment cuts that do not align with the operating reality for providers. Something must change." said Jennifer Sheets, CEO of the Alliance.
"MedPAC's recommendation to eliminate the hospice payment update in FY 2027 is deeply concerning for the providers, patients, and families who rely on this essential benefit. While there is no room for fraud, waste, and abuse in hospice, the conduct of fraudulent actors should not be used to characterize an entire field dedicated to compassionate end-of-life care. Hospice has long demonstrated its value -- improving patient and family satisfaction, saving Medicare money, and helping deliver high-quality care in the setting people overwhelmingly prefer: their homes. Policymakers should focus on strengthening and protecting access to hospice, not implementing policies that could unintentionally limit care for patients."
The Alliance is dedicated to advancing policies that support care at home for millions of Americans at all stages of life, including sustainable payment policy that supports patient access to care and targeted oversight to root out bad actors. We look forward to continued engagement with MedPAC and Congress to ensure the Commission fully recognizes the value home health and hospice bring to patients, families, and the Medicare program.
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About the National Alliance for Care at Home
The National Alliance for Care at Home (the Alliance) is the leading authority in transforming care in the home. As an inclusive thought leader, advocate, educator, and convener, we serve as the unifying voice for providers and recipients of home care, home health, hospice, palliative care, and Medicaid home and community-based services throughout all stages of life. Learn more at www.AllianceForCareAtHome.org.
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Original text here: https://allianceforcareathome.org/alliance-concerned-by-medpacs-misguided-2026-home-health-and-hospice-payment-recommendations/
[Category: Health Care]
Ag Groups Urge Mosaic, J.R. Simplot to Renounce Fertilizer Duties
CHESTERFIELD, Missouri, March 14 -- The National Corn Growers Association issued the following news:
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Ag Groups Urge Mosaic, J.R. Simplot to Renounce Fertilizer Duties
Citing the impact of the Middle East conflict, 64 agricultural groups, including the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), sent a letter today to the chief executives of two of the nation's largest domestic fertilizer producers urging them to support the removal of duties placed on imported phosphate products from Morocco.
"The recent Middle East conflict has led to increases in the prices of U.S. fertilizer, regardless
... Show Full Article
CHESTERFIELD, Missouri, March 14 -- The National Corn Growers Association issued the following news:
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Ag Groups Urge Mosaic, J.R. Simplot to Renounce Fertilizer Duties
Citing the impact of the Middle East conflict, 64 agricultural groups, including the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), sent a letter today to the chief executives of two of the nation's largest domestic fertilizer producers urging them to support the removal of duties placed on imported phosphate products from Morocco.
"The recent Middle East conflict has led to increases in the prices of U.S. fertilizer, regardlessof actual impact to the U.S. supply," read the letter, which was sent to Mosaic Company CEO Bruce Bodine and J.R. Simplot CEO Garrett Lofto. "We strongly urge efforts to lower and stabilize prices by renouncing support of phosphate duties incurred through antidumping and countervailing duty investigations."
In 2020, the Commerce Department, acting on a petition filed by Mosaic, imposed duties on phosphate fertilizers imported from Morocco and Russia. Mosaic claimed at the time that unfairly subsidized foreign companies were flooding the U.S. market with fertilizers and selling the products at extremely low prices. The petition was supported by J.R. Simplot.
As a result of the decision, at least one Moroccan company halted shipments of phosphate fertilizers into the U.S., which led to price hikes and shortages, saddling farmers with a hardship that has only worsened in recent weeks.
"The conflict, on top of already high U.S. input prices, further negates the need for U.S. companies to need CVD protection," the letter noted. "To the contrary, U.S. agricultural security - and hence national security - require that farmers have increased access to critical fertilizers."
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March 13, 2026
Bruce Bodine, President and CEO The Mosaic Company
3033 Campus Drive, Suite E490
Plymouth, MN 55441
Garrett Lofto, President and CEO J.R. Simplot
P.O. Box 70013
Boise, ID 83707-0113
Mr. Bodine and Mr. Lofto:
The recent Middle East conflict has led to increases in the prices of U.S. fertilizer, regardless of actual impact to the U.S. supply. We strongly urge efforts to lower and stabilize prices by renouncing support of phosphate duties incurred through antidumping and countervailing duty investigations.
Countervailing duties have increased and sustained high prices for phosphate fertilizer while preventing diversification. The purpose of countervailing duties (CVDs) is to protect domestic industry from foreign subsidized products. The conflict, on top of already high U.S. input prices, further negates the need for U.S. companies to need CVD protection. To the contrary, U.S.
agricultural security - and hence national security - require that farmers have increased access to critical fertilizers.
Farmers across the United States are struggling as input costs remain close to record highs.
Fertilizer manufacturers like The Mosaic Company and J.R. Simplot can immediately help alleviate some suffering in the agricultural economy by renouncing their support for continued CVDs. Instead, the undersigned organizations call on you to work with your end-customers to allow additional supplies of phosphates to enter the country at an affordable price.
The undersigned organizations request that your companies take action to support your customers - American farmers - and withdraw your support for countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizers from Morocco. While this action is seemingly minor relative to the current macro environment, including the scope of market disruptions and as well as market structure, is one step that can be taken now.
Sincerely,
National Corn Growers Association
American Farm Bureau Federation
American Soybean Association
National Cotton Council
National Sorghum Producers
Society of American Florists
U.S. Rice Producers Association
USA Rice
Alabama Soybean and Corn Association
Arkansas Soybean Association
Colorado Corn Growers Association
Colorado Sorghum Association
Corn Growers Association of North Carolina Delta Council
Georgia Corn Growers Association
Georgia/Florida Soybean Association
Illinois Corn Growers Association
Illinois Soybean Growers
Indiana Corn Growers Association
Indiana Soybean Alliance, Membership and Policy Committee Iowa
Corn Growers Association
Iowa Soybean Association
Kansas Corn Growers Association
Kansas Soybean Association
Kentucky Corn Growers Association
Kentucky Soybean Association
Louisiana Cotton & Grain Association
Maryland Grain Producers Association
Michigan Corn Growers Association
Michigan Soybean Association
Mid-Atlantic Soybean Association
Minnesota Corn Growers Association
Minnesota Soybean Growers Association
Mississippi Corn Growers Association
Mississippi Soybean Association
Missouri Corn Growers Association
Missouri Soybean Association
Nebraska Corn Growers Association
Nebraska Sorghum Producers
Nebraska Soybean Association
New Mexico Sorghum Producers
New York Corn and Soybean Growers Association
North Carolina Soybean Producers Association
North Dakota Corn Growers Association
North Dakota Soybean Growers Association
Ohio Corn & Wheat Growers Association
Ohio Soybean Association
Oklahoma Sorghum Growers
Oklahoma Soybean Association
Pennsylvania Corn Growers Association
South Carolina Corn and Soybean Association
South Dakota Corn Growers Association
South Dakota Soybean Association
Tennessee Corn Growers Association
Tennessee Soybean Association
Texas Citrus Mutual
Texas Corn Producers Association
Texas Grain Sorghum Association
Texas International Produce Association
Texas Soybean Association
Virginia Grain Producers Association
Virginia Soybean Association
Wisconsin Corn Growers Association
Wisconsin Soybean Association
CC: United States Senate
United States House of Representatives
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Original text here: https://www.ncga.com/stay-informed/media/in-the-news/article/2026/03/ag-groups-urge-mosaic-j-r-simplot-to-renounce-fertilizer-duties
[Category: Agriculture]
ASA Comments on Fertilizer Countervailing Duties
ST. LOUIS, Missouri, March 14 -- The American Soybean Association issued the following news release on March 13, 2026:
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ASA Comments on Fertilizer Countervailing Duties
Today, the American Soybean Association (ASA), its 26 state soybean affiliates representing 30 states, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), and other organizations sent a letter urging fertilizer manufacturers Mosaic and Simplot to withdraw support for countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizer imports from Morocco and Russia that continue to drive up input costs for farmers.
"U.S. farmers are facing significant
... Show Full Article
ST. LOUIS, Missouri, March 14 -- The American Soybean Association issued the following news release on March 13, 2026:
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ASA Comments on Fertilizer Countervailing Duties
Today, the American Soybean Association (ASA), its 26 state soybean affiliates representing 30 states, the National Corn Growers Association (NCGA), and other organizations sent a letter urging fertilizer manufacturers Mosaic and Simplot to withdraw support for countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizer imports from Morocco and Russia that continue to drive up input costs for farmers.
"U.S. farmers are facing significanteconomic pressure, and high fertilizer prices only add to those challenges," said Scott Metzger, president of ASA and an Ohio soybean farmer. "The countervailing duties on phosphate fertilizer imports have played a major role in the high cost of inputs for soybean production. Farmers need access to reliable, affordable fertilizer supplies to remain competitive, and imported inputs play a key role to ensuring we are able to continue producing the crops that support our food and fuel systems."
Since the first petition for countervailing duties in 2021, ASA has strongly opposed the imposition of duties. Even before recent geopolitical disruptions affecting the global fertilizer supply caused prices to spike, phosphate fertilizer prices had already doubled in recent years. Today, those pressures have only intensified as new supply disruptions continue to tighten global fertilizer markets. Throughout the sunset review process at the Department of Commerce and the International Trade Commission, ASA will continue working with industry partners and policymakers to ensure farmers have access to the inputs they need at reasonable and competitive prices by opposing the extension of these duties on phosphate imports.
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Original text here: https://soygrowers.com/news-releases/asa-comments-on-fertilizer-countervailing-duties/
[Category: Agriculture]
ACC/AHA Issue Updated Guideline for Managing Lipids, Cholesterol
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- The American College of Cardiology posted the following news release on March 13, 2026:
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ACC/AHA Issue Updated Guideline for Managing Lipids, Cholesterol
Healthy lifestyle habits, earlier treatment to lower long-term exposure to plaque-causing lipids, new cholesterol target goals, selective use of coronary calcium scoring, lipoprotein(a) and apolipoprotein B testing, new treatments, and guidance for managing lipids in specific populations among key focus areas
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WASHINGTON and DALLAS (Mar 13, 2026) - The American College of Cardiology (ACC), the American Heart
... Show Full Article
WASHINGTON, March 14 -- The American College of Cardiology posted the following news release on March 13, 2026:
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ACC/AHA Issue Updated Guideline for Managing Lipids, Cholesterol
Healthy lifestyle habits, earlier treatment to lower long-term exposure to plaque-causing lipids, new cholesterol target goals, selective use of coronary calcium scoring, lipoprotein(a) and apolipoprotein B testing, new treatments, and guidance for managing lipids in specific populations among key focus areas
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WASHINGTON and DALLAS (Mar 13, 2026) - The American College of Cardiology (ACC), the American HeartAssociation and nine other leading medical associations, today issued an updated guideline for the management of dyslipidemia--abnormal levels of one or more types of lipids or lipoproteins in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides. It is estimated 1 in 4 U.S. adults has high levels of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C), which increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
The guideline consolidates evidence-based recommendations for managing dyslipidemias into one document, offering a comprehensive "one-stop shop" for how to best assess and treat various blood lipids to effectively lower an individual's risk of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD). ASCVD is caused by buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries and is the leading cause of death globally. The document was jointly published today in JACC, the flagship journal of the American College of Cardiology, and Circulation, the flagship journal of the American Heart Association.
A major focus of the guideline is earlier intervention through healthy lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco products, prioritizing healthy sleep habits and taking cholesterol-lowering medication when recommended by a health care professional. In addition, the guideline reinforces lower LDL-C goals and percent reduction based on risk to reduce lifetime exposure to unhealthy lipids and the risk of heart attack and stroke.
"We know 80% or more of cardiovascular disease is preventable and elevated LDL cholesterol, sometimes referred to as 'bad' cholesterol, is a major part of that risk," said Roger Blumenthal, MD, FACC, FAHA, chair of the guideline writing committee, director of the Johns Hopkins Ciccarone Center for the Prevention of Heart Disease and the Kenneth J. Pollin Professor of Cardiology at Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore. "While we want to try to optimize healthy lifestyle habits as the first step to lower cholesterol, we realize that if lipid numbers aren't within the desirable range after a period of lifestyle optimization, we should consider adding lipid-lowering medication earlier than we would have considered 10 years ago. And lower LDL cholesterol for longer, just like lower blood pressure for longer, results in much greater protection against future heart attack and stroke risk."
New to the dyslipidemia guideline is the use of a newer, more contemporary cardiovascular disease risk calculator--Predicting Risk of Cardiovascular Disease EVENTs (PREVENT)--now recommended for primary prevention of ASCVD. The PREVENT-ASCVD equations are designed for adults ages 30-79 years without known ASCVD or subclinical atherosclerosis and with LDL-C 70-189 mg/dL to estimate 10- and 30- year risk of heart attack or stroke and guide lipid-lowering therapy. Lipid-lowering therapy includes statins and other newer treatments in addition to lifestyle management, all aimed at lowering lipid levels.
Older risk scores like the Pooled Cohort Equations overestimated the 10-year risk of a heart attack and stroke by 40%-50%, Blumenthal explained. The updated risk categories from the PREVENT-ASCVD equations classify 10-year ASCVD risk as low (<3%), borderline (3% to <5%), intermediate (5% to <10%), and high (10% or higher). These risk categories guide treatment decisions, including whether to initiate statin therapy and the recommended intensity of lipid-lowering therapy.
"With this new assessment tool, we can better estimate cardiovascular risk using health information already obtained during an annual physical--cholesterol, blood pressure readings and other personal information such as age and health habits--and then further personalize the risk score for each individual by looking at 'risk enhancers,' which can help guide the need for lipid-lowering therapy," Blumenthal said.
Such risk enhancers include a family history of heart disease; chronic inflammatory conditions (e.g., lupus or rheumatoid arthritis); cardiometabolic conditions such as overweight/obesity, diabetes or chronic kidney disease; higher-risk ancestry such as South Asian or Filipino ancestry or other ancestral groups with an enhanced risk for developing atherosclerosis; and reproductive risk markers, including early menopause, preeclampsia and gestational diabetes. Additional markers, including lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)], apolipoprotein B (apoB), high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP) and elevated triglycerides, can be used to refine an individual's ASCVD risk.
"Having healthy LDL-cholesterol levels or high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), traditionally thought of as 'good' cholesterol, isn't necessarily a 'get out of jail free' card," Blumenthal said. "Measuring other biomarkers can give a more complete picture of someone's cardiovascular risk and help inform decisions about whether lipid-lowering therapy is needed sooner rather than later or if more intensive therapy is warranted."
The new guideline recommends the consideration of additional tests, when appropriate, to improve cardiovascular risk assessment and assess if more intensified LDL-C lowering and management of other risk factors is needed. These include:
* Selective use of a non-contrast coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan. This can be used to check for early or subclinical calcium and plaque buildup in the walls of the heart's arteries when there remains uncertainty about a person's true risk. It is recommended for men age 40 and older and women age 45 and older with borderline or intermediate 10-year risk of heart attack or stroke if knowing CAC will help with the decision to prescribe a statin or not. Having any amount of coronary artery calcium supports an LDL-C goal of less than 100 mg/dL--with lower LDL-C target levels with higher amounts of calcium.
* Lipoprotein (a). Lp(a) should be measured at least once in adulthood. Lp(a) levels are largely genetically determined and remain relatively stable over a lifetime. High Lp(a) (125 nmol/L or greater or 50 mg/dL or greater) is associated with about a 1.4-fold increased long-term risk of heart attack or stroke. An Lp(a) of 250 nmol/L is associated with at least a two-fold increased long-term risk of heart attack or stroke. Lifestyle changes minimally affect Lp(a) levels, so repeat testing is generally not needed.
* Apolipoprotein B. Measuring apoB may be used to assess any residual ASCVD risk and guide treatment among people with cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome, Type 2 diabetes, high triglycerides or known cardiovascular disease who have reached their LDL-C and non-HDL-C goals. ApoB may be a more accurate risk marker than LDL-C in these groups of people.
LDL-C cholesterol and non-HDL-C goals are back in the new guideline. To prevent a first heart attack or stroke, the LDL-C goal should be less than 100 mg/dL for those at borderline or intermediate risk and less than 70 mg/dL in those at high risk. For individuals with ASCVD who are at very high risk of ASCVD events, the LDL-C goal should be less than 55 mg/dL for secondary prevention of cardiac events.
"In general, lower LDL is better, especially for people at increased risk for a heart attack or stroke," said Pamela B. Morris, MD, FACC, FAHA, vice-chair of the guideline writing committee and the Paul V. Palmer chair of cardiovascular disease prevention and director of the Seinsheimer Cardiovascular Health Program at The Medical University of South Carolina. "Clinical trials have clearly demonstrated significant benefits for reduction in cardiovascular events when LDL-C levels are even lower than recommended in previous guidelines."
If LDL-C levels are not adequately lowered by healthy lifestyle habits and statin therapy, which remains the foundation of lipid-lowering and risk reduction, the guideline recommends the addition of non-statin therapies. Depending upon the level of risk and patient characteristics, evidence-based options include ezetimibe and/or bempedoic acid (a newer oral agent) or a PCSK9 monoclonal antibody, an injectable therapy. Inclisiran, another injectable option that requires less frequent injections, is still being studied in clinical trials to determine whether the associated LDL-C lowering translates into better outcomes and fewer cardiac events.
The guideline also outlines treatment for hypertriglyceridemia--abnormally high levels of triglycerides. Lifestyle changes and statin therapy remain the mainstay of treatment here as well due to the increased risk of ASCVD. However, other therapies may be needed based on an individual's ASCVD and pancreatitis risk.
Special considerations are recommended to optimize lipid management in certain adults at increased risk of heart disease. For example:
* Initiating lipid-lowering therapy for people age 40 or older who have chronic kidney disease (stage 3 or higher), HIV or Type 1 or Type 2 diabetes
* Continuing lipid-lowering therapy in people being treated for cancer, unless contraindicated
* Deferring most lipid-lowering therapies during conception, pregnancy and lactation
In addition, the guideline notes that high cholesterol can begin to impact heart disease risk even in childhood and adolescence. Children may have high cholesterol due to inherited conditions or lifestyle habits. Cholesterol screening is recommended for all children between the ages of 9-11 years not previously screened to help assess risk and guide care, in collaboration with clinicians, parents and caregivers.
"Implementation of this important new guideline by clinicians will be critical to reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease in the future. Improved risk assessment tools with the PREVENT-ASCVD equations, selective use of CAC scoring and measurement of lipoprotein(a) allow us to personalize treatment of those individuals at increased risk. The evidence base continues to grow and has demonstrated that people who maintain low levels of LDL cholesterol and triglycerides at earlier ages are much less likely to develop atherosclerotic disease decades later," Morris said. "Taking action early in life is critical because high cholesterol begins to impact your heart disease risk even in adolescence."
The new guideline was developed in collaboration with and is endorsed by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation, Association of Black Cardiologists, American College of Preventive Medicine, American Diabetes Association, American Geriatrics Society, American Pharmacists Association, American Society for Preventive Cardiology, National Lipid Association and Preventive Cardiovascular Nurses Association.
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Additional Resources:
* View the manuscript online in and JACC (https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2025.11.016).
* JACC.org Guideline Hub (https://www.jacc.org/guidelines/dyslipidemia) (available Wed., March 18, 2026 at 10 am ET)
* JACC.org Dyslipidemia Guideline-at-a-Glance (https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacc.2026.02.4872) (available Wed., March 18, 2026 at 10 am ET)
* Editorial: Clinical Guidelines as a Continuous Work in Progress: Moving at the Speed of Science online in JACC (https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2026.02.4869)
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The American College of Cardiology (ACC) is a global leader dedicated to transforming cardiovascular care and improving heart health for all. For more than 75 years, the ACC has empowered a community of over 60,000 cardiovascular professionals across more than 140 countries with cutting-edge education and advocacy, rigorous professional credentials, and trusted clinical guidance. From its world-class JACC Journals and NCDR registries to its Accreditation Services, global network of Chapters and Sections, and CardioSmart patient initiatives, the College is committed to creating a world where science, knowledge and innovation optimize patient care and outcomes. Learn more at www.ACC.org or connect on social media at @ACCinTouch.
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The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. Dedicated to ensuring equitable health in all communities, the organization has been a leading source of health information for more than one hundred years. Supported by more than 35 million volunteers globally, we fund groundbreaking research, advocate for the public's health, and provide critical resources to save and improve lives affected by cardiovascular disease and stroke. By driving breakthroughs and implementing proven solutions in science, policy, and care, we work tirelessly to advance health and transform lives every day. Connect with us on heart.org, Facebook, X or by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1.
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Original text here: https://www.acc.org/About-ACC/Press-Releases/2026/03/13/18/01/ACCAHA-Issue-Updated-Guideline-for-Managing-Lipids-Cholesterol
[Category: Medical]
