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Epidemiology Corner September 12, 2003 Cholesterol Awareness September is National Cholesterol Education month. This year, the theme continues with "Know your cholesterol numbers, know your risk." Although cholesterol is necessary for the body to function normally, too much cholesterol leads to narrowing of the arteries and heart disease. Heart disease is the leading cause of death in the U.S. and in Texas where it accounted for 43,020 deaths (approximately 29 percent of the state’s deaths) during 2000. According to a 2001 statewide survey, 32 percent of Texas adults reported having high blood cholesterol levels. Because those with high blood cholesterol levels do not have any symptoms, many are unaware of their cholesterol levels. Lowering cholesterol levels reduces the risk of developing heart disease and of having a heart attack. There are several ways to decrease cholesterol levels: reduce the amount of saturated fat and cholesterol in your diet, increase the amount of physical activity in your day and if overweight, lose weight. If these lifestyle modifications do not work, medications are available to help reduce cholesterol levels. It is recommended that adults’ aged 20 and older have their cholesterol checked at least once every five years. Desirable or optimal levels are:
Take a proactive stance against heart disease and know your cholesterol levels! For more information, visit the National Cholesterol Education Program web site available at: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/chol/wyntk.pdf |
