Good cholesterol for good health

This study investigated the effects of high-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C) levels on cardiovascular events and mortality among patients with stable coronary artery disease.

High-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (HDL-C), also referred to as the "good cholesterol", is known to be an opposing factor to the development of cardiovascular events (heart and blood vessel events such as heart attacks and strokes). Previous studies have demonstrated that for every 1 mg/dl decrease in HDL-C levels, the risk of cardiovascular events is increased by 2% to 3%. By comparison, high levels of low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) are known to increase the risk of cardiovascular events. While reduction of LDL-C levels is a cornerstone in the management of cardiovascular risk, most cholesterol lowering treatments, such as the commonly prescribe statins, have no effect on HDL-C levels. Therefore, many patients properly managing their cholesterol levels might remain at a high risk for cardiovascular events due to low HDL-C levels. To further investigate this assumption, this study evaluated HDL-C as an independent predictor for cardiovascular complications and mortality. 

This trial included 2,287 patients with stable ischemic heart disease. HDL-C and LDL-C were routinely measured for an average of 4 years. Overall, it was found that the majority of patients with low HDL-C levels were men, smokers and overweight. Among patients with the highest recorded HDL-C levels (48-94 mg/dl), a 36% reduction was noticed in the risk of cardiovascular events and overall mortality. Moreover, among patients with similar LDL-C levels, those with higher HDL-C levels showed a decreased risk of cardiovascular complications. Among patients with recommended LDL-C levels (lower than 70 mg/dl), those with high HDL-C levels experienced a 67% reduction in the risk of cardiovascular complications compared to those with low HDL-C levels.

This study concluded that an inverse association exists between HDL-C levels and cardiovascular complications, independent of other factors.

Consult with your physician on how to increase HDL-C levels and its importance in the prevention of cardiovascular complications.