Genetics

Q&A: Gene-editing treatment could replace cholesterol meds

A recent trial of a novel gene-editing technique that lowered dangerously high cholesterol by up to 55% has generated talk of a new front opening against cardiovascular disease, which kills nearly 700,000 Americans each year ...

Genetics

Study finds genetic screening of adults would be cost-effective

An exhaustive cost-benefit analysis of population genetic testing published in Annals of Internal Medicine concludes with a recommendation to U.S. health policymakers to adopt routine testing of adults ages 40 and under for ...

Health

Never had a lipid panel? Here's why it's important

On a top 10 list of things to do, getting your cholesterol level checked likely doesn't make the cut—but no matter your age, knowing your numbers can be a crucial factor in overall health.

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Hypercholesterolemia

Hypercholesterolemia is the presence of high levels of cholesterol in the blood. It is not a disease but a metabolic derangement that can be caused by many diseases, notably cardiovascular disease. It is closely related to the terms "hyperlipidemia" (elevated levels of lipids in the blood) and "hyperlipoproteinemia" (elevated levels of lipoproteins in the blood).

Elevated cholesterol in the blood is due to abnormalities in the levels of lipoproteins, the particles that carry cholesterol in the bloodstream. This may be related to diet, genetic factors (such as LDL receptor mutations in familial hypercholesterolemia) and the presence of other diseases such as diabetes and an underactive thyroid. The type of hypercholesterolemia depends on which type of particle (such as low-density lipoprotein) is present in excess.

Hypercholesterolemia is treated by reducing dietary cholesterol intake, administration of certain medications, and rarely with other treatments including surgery (for particular severe subtypes).

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