Increased LDL cholesterol is associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. A recent long-term study of cholesterol levels looked at how much elevated LDL cholesterol levels affect the risk for cardiovascular disease over time.
The research looked at a 32-year study conducted from 1984-2016 that recorded cholesterol levels in participants (all of whom started the study when they were in the 18–30-year age range). The outcome of the original study focused on the outcomes of
- Stroke
- Transient ischemic attacks
- Coronary heart disease
- Hospitalizations due to heart failure
- Peripheral arterial disease
- Cardiac revascularizations
- Death
What is LDL Cholesterol?
The two major types of lipoproteins that carry cholesterol through the body have gotten the most attention in research and clinical reports. These are high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and Low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is commonly referred to as the ‘bad’ cholesterol by the general populace. For reference, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is considered the ‘good’ cholesterol.
LDL Cholesterol Over Time
After the first 16-year follow-up (year 2000), 275 participants over age 40 had already had an incident with cardiovascular disease. The results of this group showed a clear correlation with higher levels of LDL cholesterol.
Data from the study suggests the risk for cardiovascular disease depends on cumulative prior exposure to elevated blood LDL-C and the time course of accumulation. Having elevated LDL-C starting at a younger age, compared with older age, results in a greater risk, emphasizing the importance of optimal LDL-C starting early in life.
Research at Biofortis
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