Controlling cholesterol level is paramount to safeguarding your cardiovascular health
Just because someone has a slender physique doesn’t necessarily equate to being in good health. While individuals with higher body weights may face increased health risks, thinner people are not exempt from potential health issues, including heart diseases, diabetes, and dyslipidemia.
Dr. Louella Santos, president of the Philippine Lipid and Atherosclerosis Society (PLAS), emphasizes that one’s physical appearance doesn’t determine their health status, particularly when it comes to essential health indicators such as blood pressure, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels.
Dyslipidemia, a condition not widely understood by many, refers to abnormalities in cholesterol levels. Dr. Santos clarifies that cholesterol comprises various components, including triglycerides, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL).
Triglycerides, derived mainly from certain foods like white rice, bread, and pasta, can contribute to dyslipidemia when elevated. On the other hand, HDL, or “good cholesterol,” aids in removing harmful cholesterol from the body, obtained from sources like fish, nuts, and physical activity. Conversely, LDL, or “bad cholesterol,” primarily found in red meat and processed foods, poses risks to health.
When triglyceride levels become elevated, it signifies dyslipidemia. This condition can lead to the accumulation of fatty deposits along artery walls, disrupting normal blood flow and potentially resulting in severe complications like heart attacks and strokes if left unaddressed.
Dr. Santos underscores the importance of cholesterol control, as effectively managing dyslipidemia can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. This emphasis on cholesterol management was a focal point during the “Heart 2 Heart Talk on Optimal Cholesterol Control,” organized by Organon Philippines, where healthcare professionals aimed to raise awareness about dyslipidemia management and its long-term impact on heart health.
The talk, which featured experts like cardiologists Dr. Myla Gloria Supe and Dr. Pipin Kojodjojo, highlighted the urgent need for Filipinos to prioritize heart health and take proactive measures to mitigate the risks associated with high cholesterol levels.
With heart disease accounting for a significant portion of mortality in the Philippines, initiatives like these play a crucial role in educating the public about the importance of cholesterol management and empowering individuals to safeguard their cardiovascular health.
Lifestyle News: Controlling cholesterol level is paramount to safeguarding your cardiovascular health
