1 in 3 US Adults Have High LDL Cholesterol - AHA Urges Immediate Action

The American Heart Association, in partnership with national sponsor Amgen, has launched the "Lower Your LDL Cholesterol Now" initiative to raise awareness about the critical importance of monitoring and managing cholesterol levels. This public health campaign emphasizes that nearly 1 in 3 adults in the U.S. has high LDL (bad) cholesterol, often without symptoms, making regular testing essential for prevention. The initiative highlights that LDL cholesterol can silently contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, significantly increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke when left unchecked.

Dr. Amit Khera, an American Heart Association national volunteer expert and cardiologist, stresses that knowing your LDL number is one of the most important steps in protecting heart health. The association recommends all adults 20 and older undergo cholesterol testing every 4-6 years, with ideal LDL levels at or below 100 mg/dL for most adults and 70 mg/dL or lower for those with a history of cardiovascular events. The campaign provides comprehensive resources on lifestyle modifications, including adopting a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, increasing physical activity, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight to combat high cholesterol effectively.

The initiative underscores that proactive management through regular doctor consultations and early detection can significantly reduce cardiovascular risks. Readers are encouraged to visit heart.org/LDL for detailed information on cholesterol management strategies and to take immediate action by scheduling cholesterol tests and having candid conversations with healthcare providers about personalized treatment plans.