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.
National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College School of Science, Technology and Medicine, London.
M F
MF
Oliver
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