From the Research
An LDL cholesterol level of 4.48 mmol/L is considered elevated and not optimal for cardiovascular health, and according to the most recent guidelines, it is recommended to lower LDL-C levels to reduce cardiovascular risk 1. To address this elevated level, the following steps can be taken:
- Lifestyle modifications are recommended, including adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats and trans fats, regular physical activity (aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly), weight management if needed, limiting alcohol consumption, and avoiding tobacco.
- If these measures don't sufficiently lower your LDL within 3-6 months, or if you have additional cardiovascular risk factors, medication therapy (typically statins) might be necessary, as statins have been proven to effectively reduce the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) 2.
- For patients who are statin intolerant or not receiving statins, proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 inhibitors (PCSK9i) might be useful in the prevention and treatment of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD), as they have been shown to significantly lower LDL-C levels compared to ezetimibe 3. The elevated LDL is concerning because these cholesterol particles can build up in artery walls, forming plaques that narrow blood vessels and increase risk of heart attack and stroke. It is essential to discuss these results with your healthcare provider to determine your overall cardiovascular risk and develop an appropriate treatment plan, taking into account the latest guidelines and evidence, such as the study published in Atherosclerosis in 2021, which emphasizes the importance of lowering LDL-C to reduce cardiovascular risk 1.