Understanding the risks of uncontrolled LDL cholesterol
MISSION,
Kan., Aug. 28, 2024 /PRNewswire/ -- (Family
Features) Millions of Americans are at risk for life-threatening
cardiovascular events due to high cholesterol, a condition nearly
everyone has heard of yet just a fraction fully understand. In
fact, many don't realize they have high levels of harmful
cholesterol until they experience a heart attack or stroke.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 71
million adults in the United
States have high low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol,
also known as "bad" cholesterol. Of these, nearly 50 million
Americans do not have LDL cholesterol levels under control and are
at higher risk for cardiovascular events, such as heart attack and
stroke.
Protecting yourself and your loved ones from the effects of high
LDL cholesterol starts by arming yourself with key information.
What is High LDL Cholesterol?
"Your body needs cholesterol – a waxy, fat-like substance – to
work properly," said Stephen
Pinkosky, PhD, vice president, drug discovery and early
development at Esperion. "However, having too much LDL cholesterol
can lead to blockages in your arteries. Often impacted by both
lifestyle choices and genetics, it's important to maintain an LDL
cholesterol level recommended by your health care provider."
What are the Risks of High LDL Cholesterol?
"It's often not until there may be a large blockage of the
artery that you notice something is wrong, such as chest pain, pain
in the arms or jaw, nausea, sweating, shortness of breath or
weakness," Pinkosky said. "These symptoms can occur when blood
supply to the heart or brain is being slowed or blocked."
These blockages, which may not have previously caused symptoms,
can rupture and cause major problems, including heart attack or
stroke. According to the American Heart Association, the first sign
of elevated LDL cholesterol may be a deadly cardiovascular event
for some people.
According to the World Health Organization, elevated LDL
cholesterol causes more deaths than all forms of cancer combined
and accounts for around 1 in 3 deaths in the U.S. and Europe. The Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention estimates heart disease deaths will increase 25% by
2030.
What Can People Do to Get Cholesterol in Check?
One of the best ways to take care of your health is to be
proactive. Even if you're feeling fine, it's a good idea to get
your LDL cholesterol levels checked and discuss the results with
your health care provider to determine the best treatment option
for you, if needed. Your care team will consider your LDL
cholesterol level, along with any other factors that make a heart
attack or need for a heart procedure more likely to occur, such as
your age, sex, family history (genetics), presence of diabetes or
high blood pressure and lifestyle (like whether or not you smoke
and your diet).
For those with high LDL cholesterol, there are options to get
your level under control. Studies show reducing LDL-C levels with
certain cholesterol lowering medications may reduce the risk of
major cardiovascular events.
Consult your health care provider if you are unsure of your LDL
cholesterol level or want to discuss options to lower your level.
To learn more about high LDL cholesterol risks and management,
visit cardiosmart.org.
Michael French
mfrench@familyfeatures.com
1-888-824-3337
editors.familyfeatures.com
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SOURCE Family Features Editorial Syndicate