Abstract
A low level of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. Epidemiological and clinical studies provide evidence that HDL-C levels are linked to rates of coronary events. The cardioprotective effects of HDL-C have been attributed to its role in reverse cholesterol transport, its effects on endothelial cells, and its antioxidant activity. Although some clinical trials suggest a benefit of raising HDL-C to reduce risk, further studies are needed, and HDL-C is still not considered a primary target of therapy in the National Cholesterol Education Program guidelines. However, HDL-C should be considered as part of the patient's overall profile of established risk factors in determining treatment strategies.
Original language | English (US) |
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Journal | Circulation |
Volume | 109 |
Issue number | 23 SUPPL. |
State | Published - Jun 15 2004 |
Keywords
- Atherosclerosis
- Cardiovascular diseases
- Cholesterol
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL)
- Lipoproteins
- Risk factors
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Physiology
- Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine