When it comes to lowering cholesterol, taking steps early – before hardening of the arteries appears – is the best way to reduce the risk of heart attack, according to a new study by Wayne State University School of Medicine researchers.
In a report last week at the American College of Cardiology's 61st Annual Scientific Session, WSU scientists reported patients who took steps early in life to lower LDL “bad” cholesterol were three times less likely to have a heart attack or coronary heart disease than those who started treatment with statin drugs later in life.
The study also suggested diet and fitness may be just as effective as using statins to lower cholesterol in young people.
Researchers noted by the time most people begin treatment to lower LDL, atherosclerosis – hardening of the arteries, which can cause a heart attack -- has often been quietly developing for decades.
"Our study shows that the benefit of lowering LDL cholesterol depends on both the timing and the magnitude of LDL reduction," said lead researcher Dr. Brian A. Ference. "The increased benefit of lowering LDL beginning early in life appeared to be independent of how LDL was lowered. This means that diet and exercise are probably as effective as statins or other medications at reducing the risk of [heart disease] when started early in life."
Coronary heart disease is the most common cause of death and disability in the world.