Cholesterol: The Statistics

Approximately 105 million adult Americans have elevated blood cholesterol levels.  High levels of cholesterol increase overall risk factors for cardiovascular disease, heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.  Approximately half of the 105 million adult Americans that have elevated blood cholesterol levels are currently at high risk for the development of these conditions.

Cholesterol:  The Facts

Cholesterol is necessary within the body in adequate amounts as it supports the function of all biological systems.  However, cholesterol is only required in limited amounts.  A total blood cholesterol level should be maintained under 200mg/dL.

Total cholesterol levels are produced by a combination of two types of cholesterol, known as HDL and LDL.  Cholesterol is determined by a variety of factors including lifestyle, dietary intake, and even genetics.

LDL and HDL Cholesterols

Low density lipoproteins (LDL’s) are known as “bad” cholesterols.  High density lipoproteins are known as “good” cholesterols.  LDL cholesterols are known for the production of plaque build up within arteries, while HDL cholesterols are known for the removal of LDL build up, aiding in the prevention of atherosclerosis by limiting the build up of fatty LDL’s.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides also play a role in the development of plaques.  However, the exact mechanisms and importance of this role is still subject to much scientific debate.  It is known that chylomicrons are composed not only of cholesterol, but is mostly composed of triglycerides.

Chylomicrons are formed by the body and surrounded by a lipoprotein coat that is detectable by the liver.  The liver is responsible for the removal of excess cholesterol in this manner.  Commonly, high cholesterol is also associated with high triglyceride levels.

Plaque Build-Up

Cholesterol is only required in small amounts, excess cholesterol is cause for build up in the arteries.  This build up is known as plaque.  Plaque deposits are cause for narrowing of there arteries, causing decreased blood flow.  Plaque can build up to the point where the arteries become blocked.  A blockage of an artery in the brain is known as a stroke.

A blockage of an artery in other parts of the body causes myocardial infarctions (heart attacks).  The role of triglycerides in plaque build up is currently unknown.  However, high triglyceride levels are commonly associated with high levels of cholesterol and the presence of atherosclerosis.

Atherosclerosis

Atherosclerosis, commonly known as a hardening of the arteries, is the build up of LDL cholesterol within the arteries.  Typically, the build up of excess plaque also cause inflammation of arteries.  The combination of inflammation and plaque build up can lead to decreased blood flow and even the presence of blood clots.

What are Healthy Cholesterol Levels?

The optimal LDL level is less than 100mg/dL.  This is considered to be optimal.  A LDL range of 100-129mg/dL is considered nearly optimal, where 130-159mg/dL is borderline high, and 160-189mg/dL is high.  LDL levels greater than 190 are considered very high.

HDL levels that are measured at less than 40mg/dL are considered to be associated with higher rates of incidence for the development of cardiovascular disease.  HDL levels greater than 60mg/dL are considered to be optimal with promotions to heart health.

Resources:

http://www.medicinenet.com/cholesterol/page4.htm

http://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/guide/cholesterol-basics?page=3