Background Cardiovascular diseases represent one of the leading causes of death worldwide. Among the risk factors is dyslipidemia, giving rise to the need for analysis of plasma atherogenic index. The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between atherogenic indices and the presence of coronary risk in adults living in Chile, compared to the independent use of lipid profile components, according to data published in the National Health Survey 2016–2017. Methods Secondary analysis study, using the database of the National Health Survey 2016–2017, adults between 18 and 60 years old, both sexes and with a diagnosis of dyslipidemia were selected. Castelli Index I and II atherogenic indices, atherogenic index and atherogenic coefficient were calculated. Spearman’s coefficient was used for statistical analysis. Results There is a stronger association between atherogenic index, and the presence of cardiovascular risk compared to the independent use of lipid profile components. Plasma atherogenic index (PAI) has the strongest association and is therefore the best predictor of cardiovascular risk. Conclusion The use of PAI can be considered a simple, convenient, non-invasive, and inexpensive tool for the early detection of cardiovascular disease in the Chilean population and may help to prevent complications in chronic diseases.
