For a long time, lipids have proven to be linked to the atherosclerotic process. Along with nicotine, body weight, blood pressure and diabetes, lipids are considered an important element in the five major risk factors for this disease.
Looking at the lipid spectrum, LDL-cholesterol has always been considered as being on the “bad" end, with HDL-cholesterol on the “good” end, which has concentrated our efforts on decreasing LDL-cholesterol while keeping HDL-cholesterol high – however, this is not necessarily the best approach. We still ask just how low LDL-cholesterol should be decreased and what is the best method to obtain these low values, while the opposite is being asked in relation to HDL-cholesterol. In short, the “concept" of too low LDL-cholesterol and too high HDL-cholesterol is still questioned.
This series explores these and other points to better understand lipids today, reviewing recent ESC guidelines which help to clarify them. Several new drugs have recently been developed and their mechanism of action will be discussed. In addition, the role of triglycerides and other lipids will be examined.
D.L. Clement, Editor-in-chief, E-journal
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Our mission: To reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease.