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Cholesterol Myths Exposed: Many Unaware of Drug Options
2 Feb
Summary
- Many Americans lack understanding of unhealthy cholesterol and its risks.
- Few know about non-statin cholesterol-lowering drugs beyond statins.
- Genetic risks and artery scan awareness also appear low.
A new survey indicates that many Americans have a poor grasp of unhealthy cholesterol and the risks it poses to heart health. A significant portion of respondents were unaware of the diverse range of medications available to manage cholesterol levels. Only 60% of participants had heard of statins, the most frequently prescribed cholesterol-lowering drugs. Awareness of other non-statin medications designed to reduce LDL, the "bad" cholesterol, is notably lower.
Furthermore, the survey highlighted a lack of knowledge regarding genetic factors that can contribute to high cholesterol, as well as specialized body scans capable of detecting clogged arteries. Health professionals are concerned, noting that cardiovascular disease remains the primary cause of death in the United States and is affecting younger individuals more frequently due to increased risk factors like high blood pressure and diabetes.
Specialists pointed out that many people do not know their cholesterol numbers unless tested, leading to undetected risks. The survey found that awareness of non-statin drugs, such as ezetimibe and PCSK9 inhibitors, is particularly low. These medications are crucial for patients who experience side effects from statins or require additional treatment. The article also introduces lipoprotein(a) or Lp(a), an inherited risk factor affecting about 20% of the global population, which cannot be managed through lifestyle changes alone. Patients with elevated Lp(a) levels are advised to undergo LDL-lowering therapies to mitigate their cardiovascular disease risk.
