Creating A Cholesterol Plan
By: Wade Gibson
A number of Americans have put their hearts into lowering their
cholesterol. Yet a recent American Heart Association survey found
that many adults with high cholesterol still don't realize that
they have an increased risk of developing heart disease.
According to the survey, 50 percent of respondents with cholesterol
levels of 200 or greater, and who had risk factors such as high
blood pressure or diabetes, did not perceive themselves to be at
high risk for cardiovascular disease. Fifteen percent believed they
were at low risk. However, the American Heart Association and
National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) data indicate that
many of these respondents are in danger of having a heart attack
within a decade.
Cholesterol guidelines established by both groups show that people
with multiple risk factors-smoking, high blood pressure, elevated
cholesterol, etc.-and people with coronary heart disease and other
conditions are at high risk of having a heart attack within 10
years.
The findings are the focus of this year's American Heart
Association's Cholesterol Low Down program, an effort meant to help
teach people about their risk of heart disease. Anyone can join the
program by calling 1-800-AHA-USA1 or visiting
americanheart.org/cld. Participants receive a Healthy Heart Kit,
which includes "The Cholesterol Low Down About Your Cholesterol"
guide and a "Low-Fat Favorite Recipes" cookbook. The Cholesterol
Low Down is sponsored by Pfizer.
"Patients know that cholesterol is important; however, they need to
better understand that their high cholesterol and additional risk
factors may lead to heart disease or a stroke," said Roger S.
Blumenthal, M.D., associate professor of medicine in the Division
of Cardiology at Johns Hopkins Hospital and School of Medicine in
Baltimore.
Words Of Wisdom
The survey also found that 72 percent of respondents strongly agree
that their health care provider is a partner in managing their
cholesterol. Those who frequently discuss cholesterol with their
health care provider report being well-informed about issues such
as setting personal cholesterol goals and the importance of
following treatment plans.
"Health care providers are an important and supportive resource for
individuals at risk for heart disease and stroke because of their
cholesterol and other risk factors, " said Lori Mosca, M.D.,
Director of Preventive Cardiology at New York-Presbyterian
Hospital; Associate Professor of Medicine at Columbia University
College of Physicians and Surgeons. "Patients should work with
their doctor to learn if their cholesterol levels are healthy and
to develop a plan that includes a healthy diet and physical
activity to reduce their risk."
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