USA Today reports that since 2006 the number of balloon and stent procedures, also known as angioplasty and stenting, has been on the decline in the United States by up to 15 percent. Although the exact cause is not clear, decreasing smoking rates and greater use of medications such as aspirin and statins are likely contributing. Additionally, recent media reports about the controversial use of stenting may be affecting doctors’ decisions.

Look for more information on trends in cardiac procedures from the upcoming meeting American College of Cardiology meeting in Chicago.