Lowering Cholesterol Levels to a Large Degree Further Reduces Cardiovascular Risk

This study suggests not only are they safe, but they also reduced risk of heart disease, heart attack and stroke." In the paper, the scientists examined levels of low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. This is considered to be 'bad' cholesterol, as it is responsible for clogging arteries. LDL carries cholesterol to cells, but when there is too much cholesterol for cells to use, LDL deposits the cholesterol in the artery walls. Official advice suggests most people should aim to keep their LDL cholesterol at 100 mg/dL or below, though this number can vary depending on a person's risk of cardiovascular disease. In the study, the team analysed data from 10 trials, involving 5000 patients. Most had cardiovascular disease, and already had some furring of the arteries or were at very high risk of furred arteries. All of the patients had previously been diagnosed with high cholesterol, and many were slightly overweight. The average age was 60, and the researchers tracked the patients for between three months and two years. The average cholesterol reading was around 125 mg/dL, and they were all deemed at risk of heart problems or stroke. Mostly patients were taking a cholesterol-lowering statin therapy, but just over half were also taking an additional novel drug, called alirocumab, every two weeks via a small injection, to further lower cholesterol levels. This drug may be needed when patients' cholesterol levels are not sufficiently lowered by statins. Some patient...
Source: Fight Aging! - Category: Research Authors: Tags: Daily News Source Type: blogs