Introduction:
October is Cholesterol Awareness Month, a time when we refocus our attention on a silent yet powerful risk factor for cardiovascular disease: cholesterol. High cholesterol (also known as hypercholesterolaemia) remains a major concern in South Africa and across the globe.
High cholesterol is alarmingly common in South Africa, affecting millions of individuals. Recent statistics indicate that nearly one in four South Africans grapple with elevated cholesterol levels. This high prevalence underscores the urgency of raising awareness and taking proactive steps to manage cholesterol effectively.
Symptoms of High Cholesterol:
While high cholesterol itself does not cause noticeable symptoms, it can lead to the development of physical signs, such as:
Xanthelasma: Xanthelasma is the appearance of yellowish patches on the skin, typically around the eyelids. These patches are a result of cholesterol deposits in the skin and can be indicative of high cholesterol levels.
Xanthoma: Xanthomas are fatty deposits that can form beneath the skin, leading to painless bumps or nodules. These nodules can appear on the elbows, knees, hands, or feet, signaling high cholesterol concerns.
These physical signs may serve as visible warnings of cholesterol imbalances and should not be overlooked.
High cholesterol can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition characterized by the narrowing and hardening of your arteries. Advanced atherosclerosis may result in symptoms such as:
Angina (chest pain or discomfort).
Leg pain or cramps during physical activity (claudication).
Sudden numbness or weakness in your arms or legs.
Confusion and memory problems.
These symptoms are indicative of underlying cardiovascular issues and are often a result of cholesterol-related artery blockages.
Causes of High Cholesterol:
High cholesterol levels are primarily a result of factors such as:
Unhealthy Diet: Consuming a diet rich in saturated and trans fats, found in red meat, full-fat dairy products, and processed foods, can elevate LDL cholesterol levels.
Lack of Physical Activity: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to high cholesterol levels.
Genetics: Genetics plays a significant role in the cholesterol puzzle. Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a genetic condition that leads to extremely high cholesterol levels from birth. Individuals with FH have a gene that impairs the body's ability to remove excess LDL cholesterol, making them highly susceptible to premature heart disease.
Smoking: Smoking damages blood vessels, making it easier for cholesterol to accumulate in artery walls.
Obesity: Excess body weight, especially around the abdomen, can increase cholesterol levels.
The Importance of Cholesterol Monitoring:
Regular monitoring of cholesterol levels is vital to assess your risk of cardiovascular disease. High cholesterol often remains asymptomatic for years, posing a considerable threat to your health. Monitoring cholesterol enables the early detection of potential issues, facilitating timely intervention and management to prevent life-threatening consequences.
This is especially important in individuals who have a higher risk for cardiovascular disease, due to high cholesterol, particularly those with:
A family history of heart disease or high cholesterol.
Diabetes.
High blood pressure (hypertension).
A history of smoking.
Obesity or an unhealthy lifestyle.
Genetic predispositions like Familial Hypercholesterolemia.
Improving Cholesterol Levels:
Taking control of your cholesterol levels and mitigating your risk of cardiovascular disease is possible. Here are some strategies to consider:
Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet: Prioritize fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing saturated and trans fats.
Regular Exercise: Engage in consistent physical activity to lower LDL cholesterol and elevate HDL cholesterol.
Smoking Cessation: Quitting smoking is one of the most significant steps you can take to improve your heart health.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: Shedding excess pounds, if necessary, can lower your cholesterol levels.
Medication: In some cases, medications prescribed by your healthcare provider can help manage your cholesterol.
During Cholesterol Awareness Month, let's make a commitment to prioritise our heart health. It's crucial to have your cholesterol levels checked, especially if you have a family history of high cholesterol or early-onset heart disease. Consider scheduling a consultation with us to provide you with guidance to manage your cholesterol levels.
Knowledge is power, and by actively managing your cholesterol, you can take a significant step towards safeguarding your heart. Don't delay—act now to protect your health. Together, we can reduce the impact of high cholesterol on the health of South Africans. Your heart will thank you for it.