Diagnosis and Treatment Program for Familial Hypercholesterolemia

West Virginia University: Prevention Research Center

Topics:
Cardiovascular Health

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited condition in which cholesterol levels are high at birth, which often contributes to heart attack at an early age. About 85 percent of men with FH have a heart attack by age 60. Early diagnosis and treatment are important because proper diet, exercise, and medication can lower cholesterol among people with FH. Researchers are adding risk factors for FH to a surveillance program for the prevention of heart disease among people in Appalachia. Researchers are also establishing a statewide FH diagnosis, referral, and treatment protocol, and determining what issues must be resolved to help residents participate in diagnosis and treatment programs.

 

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