As National Cholesterol Education Month gets underway, health experts are encouraging people to learn their cholesterol numbers and take steps to reduce their risk of heart disease and stroke.
High cholesterol often has no noticeable symptoms, making regular screenings important for identifying potential health risks before serious complications develop.
“The majority of the cholesterol in our circulation is going to be reflecting our diet,” said Dr. Nicole Saint Clair, executive medical director with Regence BlueShield. “We have a lot of power to influence our cholesterol based on what we eat.”
According to Saint Clair, cholesterol levels are influenced by both lifestyle choices and genetics. While diet plays a major role, the liver also naturally produces cholesterol, and some people are genetically predisposed to have higher levels.
“Your cholesterol level is built on two things. First and foremost, what you’re eating, but also it’s what your liver is doing,” Saint Clair said. “We all have a pre-programmed level that our liver will try to put cholesterol out.”
Researchers are also exploring new treatments aimed at lowering cholesterol by targeting the liver’s cholesterol production.
“When we look at gene therapy and new technology of that type, they’re really looking at how they can tweak the liver’s production so it knows to make less cholesterol,” Saint Clair said.
In addition to eating a healthy diet, Saint Clair recommends staying physically active to improve overall cardiovascular health.
“Any types of physical activities, whether that’s running, biking, walking, yoga, all of those things will improve high blood sugar, blood pressure and probably cholesterol, too,” she said.
A simple blood test known as a lipid panel can measure cholesterol levels and help determine whether treatment is needed. If lifestyle changes alone are not enough, medications may also help bring cholesterol levels into a healthier range, Saint Clair said.
Health experts say understanding your cholesterol numbers and working with your healthcare provider can help reduce the risk of serious conditions, including heart attack and stroke.
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