Lowering cholesterol in old age.
In arguing for a conservative view of the need for and wisdom of lowering plasma cholesterol, or low density lipoprotein cholesterol, in advanced age, three considerations are taken into account. These are: plasma cholesterol concentrations decrease spontaneously with age, as does their association with vascular disease; the absence of data to demonstrate the benefits of lowering cholesterol levels in the elderly; and conflicting priorities (including the cost of treatment) in the care of the elderly. Patients with known coronary heart disease who have received lipid-lowering treatment for some years could continue to be treated with these drugs beyond the age of 75, though even this decision should depend on clinical judgement.
Oliver
M F
MF
National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College School of Science, Technology and Medicine, London.
D000367:Age Factors; D000368:Aged; D000369:Aged, 80 and over; D002318:Cardiovascular Diseases / Q000209:etiology / Q000517:prevention & control*; D002784:Cholesterol / Q000097:blood*; D002986:Clinical Trials as Topic; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D006949:Hyperlipidemias / Q000150:complications / Q000188:drug therapy*; D000960:Hypolipidemic Agents / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D008077:Lipoproteins, LDL / Q000097:blood / Q000187:drug effects*; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D011379:Prognosis
D000960:Hypolipidemic Agents; D008077:Lipoproteins, LDL; D002784:Cholesterol