Study: Alarming Lack of Awareness: Over 40% of US Adults Uninformed About and Untreated for High Cholesterol

Study: Alarming Lack of Awareness: Over 40% of US Adults Uninformed About and Untreated for High Cholesterol 

A recent study reveals a concerning trend among adults in the United States, where more than 40% are oblivious to the fact that they have high cholesterol. This lack of awareness translates into an absence of treatment, despite the significant health risks associated with high cholesterol levels, such as an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes.

The study, featured in JAMA Cardiology, was conducted by a team of researchers from various institutions spanning New York, Texas, Louisiana, Pakistan, and Egypt. Their investigation delved into data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, spanning the years 1999 to 2020. The focus was on individuals aged 20 and older, specifically those with cholesterol levels exceeding 160 mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter).

Cholesterol levels are categorized as follows: less than 150 mg/dL is considered normal, 150 to 199 mg/dL falls into the borderline high range, 200 to 499 mg/dL is classified as high, and 500 mg/dL or higher is deemed very high, as per guidelines from Johns Hopkins Medicine.

The survey data underwent scrutiny to determine whether adults had been informed about their elevated cholesterol levels and whether they were receiving any form of treatment. Individuals were categorized as "unaware" if they had never been measured or informed about their cholesterol levels. Those who had not been prescribed cholesterol-lowering medications, including statins, were classified as "untreated."

Neglecting high cholesterol can lead to the accumulation of plaque in blood vessels, significantly increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes.

While there was a reduction in the percentage of individuals who were unaware of their high cholesterol levels and not receiving treatment between 1999 and 2020, the figures remained alarmingly high. In 1999, 49.4% of individuals with cholesterol levels at or above 160 mg/dL were both unaware and untreated, decreasing to 38.5% in 2020.

The study also unearthed disparities among different demographic groups. Younger adults, men, individuals without insurance, and Hispanic populations exhibited higher rates of being unaware and untreated. Furthermore, individuals with lower educational levels and those from lower socioeconomic backgrounds also had higher rates of untreated elevated cholesterol.

Approximately two-thirds of adults in the United States report having had their cholesterol levels checked within the last five years, as reported by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The general recommendation is for healthy adults to have their cholesterol checked every four to six years. However, individuals with heart disease, diabetes, or a family history of high cholesterol may require more frequent monitoring.

The authors of the study highlight the importance of raising awareness about the risks associated with high cholesterol and the necessity of access to primary care. They also emphasize the need for consistent screening in primary care, establishing clear screening recommendations, and promoting the significance of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol as a quality measure. Overcoming hesitance to treat asymptomatic individuals is another vital step toward addressing this issue and mitigating the potential health consequences.