What are the facts on cholesterol? Questions physicians often ask about screening and treatment.
In spite of, or possibly because of, the many studies about cholesterol in the literature, some physicians remain confused or skeptical about the issues and conclusions. Reasonably clear evidence indicates that lowering the total serum cholesterol level can lessen the likelihood of primary coronary artery disease. There is no reason to believe that this benefit would not be conferred on women and the elderly, even though specific studies have not been done in these populations. Also, lowered cholesterol levels have been shown to correlate with regression of established atherosclerotic lesions. Moderate dietary changes can have significant impact on serum lipid levels in many patients, and a trial of low-dose drug therapy can usually identify those who may benefit from combination therapy.
Schmidt
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SB
Section of Cardiology, West Virginia University School of Medicine, Morgantown 26506.
D002784:Cholesterol / Q000097:blood*; D002791:Cholesterol, Dietary / Q000008:administration & dosage; D008076:Cholesterol, HDL / Q000097:blood; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control; D006801:Humans; D006937:Hypercholesterolemia / Q000150:complications / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000188:drug therapy; D012307:Risk Factors
D002791:Cholesterol, Dietary; D008076:Cholesterol, HDL; D002784:Cholesterol