Cholesterol, a silent killer with no outward signs, can lead to heart attacks and strokes if left unchecked.
Six out of every ten adults in the UK may have high cholesterol levels, with a rise seen since the pandemic.
High cholesterol, particularly LDL, is linked to an increased risk of developing dementia, with studies showing a 33% higher risk with persistently high levels.
Lifestyle changes such as diet modifications and statin medications can reduce the risk of dementia associated with high cholesterol.
Regular NHS Health Checks, which measure cholesterol levels, are recommended for all adults aged 40 to 74 but attendance rates have declined over the years, impacting dementia prevention efforts.
High cholesterol, often referred to as the silent killer, poses a serious health risk for many adults in the UK. Despite the lack of outward symptoms, high cholesterol can lead to deadly heart attacks and strokes by clogging arteries. Studies have shown a concerning rise in high cholesterol levels since the pandemic, with as many as six out of every ten adults being affected. Particularly alarming is the link between high cholesterol, especially low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and dementia, with research suggesting that each increase in LDL raises the risk of developing dementia in old age.
Experts emphasize that it’s never too late to address high cholesterol, as there are effective ways to reduce it. Lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet and taking statins to lower cholesterol levels, have been shown to significantly reduce the risk of dementia and heart disease. It is essential for adults to attend their NHS Health Checks regularly, as these appointments offer important tests like cholesterol screenings that can provide early warnings of potential health issues. By maintaining healthy cholesterol levels through proactive measures, individuals can protect their overall wellbeing and decrease their risk of developing serious conditions like dementia, diabetes, and heart problems.
