Why cholesterol as a central theme in coronary artery disease?
Evidence from epidemiologic studies and clinical trials have conclusively demonstrated a direct association between coronary artery disease and levels of total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Data from a number of studies suggest that even "average" or "normal" cholesterol levels are too high with respect to coronary artery disease risk. Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol have also emerged as a coronary artery disease risk. A recent meta-analysis has eliminated much of the controversy surrounding triglyceride's contribution to coronary artery disease risk, establishing triglyceride levels as an independent risk factor. Lowering lipid levels by any means-including pharmacologic, surgical, and dietary/lifestyle changes--decreases coronary artery disease risk.
Sacks
F M
FM
Harvard School of Public Health, Boston, Massachusetts 02115, USA.
D000368:Aged; D000924:Anticholesteremic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008078:Cholesterol, LDL / Q000097:blood*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D003327:Coronary Disease / Q000178:diet therapy / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D018752:Diet, Fat-Restricted; D004042:Dietary Fats, Unsaturated / Q000008:administration & dosage*; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged
D000924:Anticholesteremic Agents; D008078:Cholesterol, LDL; D004042:Dietary Fats, Unsaturated