Cholesterol Testing in Young Adults

Rarely does one see young people going through health screenings, which are expensive and time consuming. Although it may seem like a waste of time, such tests can actually be helpful. This also applies to cholesterol screening. According to a research released in an issue of the Annals of Family Medicine, despite having less than half of them are screened for high cholesterol.

Coronary artery disease, better known as coronary heart disease, is an upsurge of plaque, fatty material and calcium in one’s arteries. It stops the regular flow of oxygen and blood to the heart, leaving the person to suffer a heart attack. In the US, heart attack is one of the main causes of disability and death.

Based on a research conducted by Dr. Elena Kuklina and her colleagues, it was discovered that heart disease, other associated illnesses and risk factor rates were high among adults. The rates of bad cholesterol were likewise high. Among young adults, increased LDL levels were 7% without risk factors; 26% with at least two risk factors; 12% with one risk factor and 65% with heart-related diseases.

As a result, Kuklina advised young people to make lifestyle changes as early as now. Opting for a healthier diet, managing one’s body weight and increasing one’s physical activity are good examples of such changes.