High Cholesterol

The medical term for high cholesterol is hyperlipidemia.

DEFINITION

Unlike hypertension, there are no defined normal levels for cholesterol.

Instead we talk about risk levels. An individual’s risk of heart attack or stroke depends not only on cholesterol but also the interaction with other risk factors such as age, gender, smoking, diabetes, hypertension and whether he already has a history of heart attack, stroke or arterial blockage.

Based on the total number of risk factors present, a recommended target level of cholesterol is set. In simple terms, the higher the number of risk factors, the lower the cholesterol level must be to reduce the risk.

HOW COMMON IS HIGH CHOLESTEROL IN SINGAPORE?

According to the National Health Survey in 1998, about 1 in 4 Singapore residents aged greater than 18 years, has a total cholesterol level above 240 mg/dl.

HOW IS HIGH BLOOD CHOLESTEROL DIAGNOSED?

A simple blood test is all that is needed. You will be asked to fast for at least 8 hours before the blood test so that all the sub-fractions of blood cholesterol can be measured.

COMPONENTS OF BLOOD CHOLESTEROL

Total cholesterol HDL cholesterol – this is “good” cholesterol. It helps to remove cholesterol from the arteries and brings it back to the liver LDL cholesterol – this is “bad” cholesterol. It is deposited in the walls of arteries, causing obstruction, heart attack and stroke. Triglycerides – this is the main carrier of fats after it is digested in the intestines and absorbed into the blood

TREATMENT

1. Diet

Reduce intake of processed foods to a minimum. Processed foods include refined carbohydrates, sugars, unhealthy fats and foods containing preservatives. Increase intake of fresh foods, vegetables, lean meats, fish and whole grains.

2. Exercise

Moderate exercise, for as little as 15 minutes a day, provided it is done on a regular basis, 5 to 7 times a week, can help to maintain healthy weight and cardiovascular fitness. This is especially true for the elderly and for those who have not been exercising for a long while. Increasing the intensity and duration as fitness improves is important if more weight loss is desired. Exercise must work hand in hand with diet in achieving this goal. It is a common mistake to assume that one can eat unlimited amounts as long as one exercises.

3. Medication

Statins – Lipitor, Crestor, Zocor, Pravachol. Fibric acid group – Lipanthyl, Bezalip, Lopid, Fenosup. Resins – Cholestyramine, Colestipol Ezetimibe – Ezetrol Niacin