Dyslipidemia

Dyslipidemia refers to atypical or abnormal levels of lipids (fats) in the blood, including cholesterol and triglycerides. Lipids are absorbed from the intestines and carried throughout the body via lipoproteins for energy, steroid production, or bile acid formation. The condition involves an imbalance of key factors: cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, triglycerides, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).

Dyslipidemia encompasses several lipid abnormalities: high LDL ("bad" cholesterol), low HDL ("good" cholesterol), elevated triglycerides (above 150 mg/dL), or high total cholesterol. Diabetic dyslipidemia is particularly severe, featuring insufficient good cholesterol, excessive bad cholesterol, and high triglycerides together. dangerously high triglyceride levels exceed 500 mg/dL.

Abnormal lipid levels increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attack and stroke. Dyslipidemia is a major contributor to atherosclerosis, where fatty deposits build up in artery walls.

Causes include obesity, poor diet, physical inactivity, diabetes, genetic conditions, and certain medications. Treatment begins with healthy lifestyle changes: limiting saturated fats to under 7% of calories, total fats under 35% of calories, regular exercise, weight loss, and blood glucose control. Regular cholesterol screenings and maintaining healthy lifestyle habits are essential for prevention.