High cholesterol refers to increased levels of unhealthy fats in the blood, especially LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Excess cholesterol gradually builds up inside blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
High cholesterol refers to increased levels of unhealthy fats in the blood, especially LDL (“bad”) cholesterol. Excess cholesterol gradually builds up inside blood vessels and increases the risk of heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
High cholesterol usually does not cause symptoms and is often detected through blood tests. Risk factors include unhealthy diet, obesity, diabetes, smoking, lack of exercise, and family history.
Management includes healthy diet, exercise, weight control, smoking cessation, and medications such as statins. Modern treatment options also include injectable therapies such as PCSK9 inhibitors and Inclisiran in selected high-risk patients.
Regular monitoring and treatment are important for long-term cardiovascular protection.
ESC
