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By zp7op | Contributor
About 38% of adults in the United States suffer from high cholesterol, a condition that can result from unhealthy lifestyle choices or genetic factors, as stated by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Elevated low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol—often referred to as “bad” cholesterol—can lead to the accumulation of fatty deposits (plaque) and the narrowing of arteries.
LDL cholesterol is the type of cholesterol most linked to a higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. A Harris Poll survey commissioned by the American Heart Association revealed that 75% of individuals who have experienced heart attacks or strokes had high cholesterol, yet fewer than half (49%) prioritize efforts to reduce their cholesterol levels.
“There’s a pervasive lack of public awareness and understanding around bad cholesterol and its impact on your cardiovascular health,” remarked Joseph C. Wu, MD, PHD, FAHA, volunteer president of the American Heart Association and director of the Stanford Cardiovascular Institute, along with Simon H. Stertzer, MD, a professor of medicine and radiology at Stanford School of Medicine. “Because bad cholesterol typically presents no symptoms, many patients remain unaware of their risk or potential ways to manage it.”
To understand more about LDL cholesterol, its effects on heart health, and how to maintain a healthy level, consider the following information from the Lower Your LDL Cholesterol Now initiative, sponsored nationally by Amgen.
Know Your LDL Number
The survey indicated that nearly half (47%) of heart attack and stroke survivors do not know their LDL cholesterol levels. Although cholesterol levels can differ among different races and ethnicities—higher levels of LDL are most commonly found among Asian men and Hispanic women—research indicates that “lower is better” concerning LDL cholesterol levels.
For healthy adults, an LDL level of 100 mg/dL or below is optimal for maintaining good health. For individuals with a history of heart attacks or strokes who are already undergoing cholesterol-lowering treatment, doctors may recommend aiming for an LDL level of 70 mg/dL or lower. Factors impacting LDL levels include race and ethnicity, family medical history, age, gender, tobacco use (including secondhand smoke exposure), eating habits, physical activity levels, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity.
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Frequency of Checking Your LDL Levels
Because high LDL levels usually do not exhibit noticeable symptoms, it is crucial to have your levels checked by a healthcare professional. Consult with your doctor to determine the appropriate frequency for monitoring your cholesterol. Generally, healthy adults aged 20-39 should check their cholesterol every 4-6 years. For individuals over the age of 40, those with heart disease (including a history of heart attacks), or others with significant risk factors, more frequent checks may be necessary.
Understanding Risks of High LDL
Excess LDL cholesterol can lead to fatty deposits accumulating within your arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which can restrict arterial blood flow. If a piece of plaque dislodges, it may travel through the bloodstream and obstruct a blood vessel in the heart or brain, resulting in a heart attack or stroke. This narrowing of the arteries also raises the risk of peripheral artery disease.
Steps to Control High LDL
Managing high cholesterol requires a tailored approach. It’s important to discuss with your healthcare provider the most suitable treatment plan for you. According to the American Heart Association’s guidelines, lifestyle modifications can help manage cholesterol levels, including:
- Eating a well-balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, lean proteins, and fish
- Staying physically active and striving for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise each week (such as brisk walking)
- Effectively managing stress
- Quitting tobacco use
However, some individuals, particularly heart attack and stroke survivors, should consider discussing cholesterol-lowering medications with their doctor.
Photos courtesy of Shutterstock
