Cholesterol Day 2024: Know Your Numbers, Protect Your Heart

Do you know your cholesterol levels? If not, it's time to get them checked. A simple blood test is all it takes to determine your cholesterol values and assess your risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Today, on Cholesterol Day 2024, we join the global initiative to raise awareness about the dangers of unhealthy cholesterol levels and the importance of prevention and early detection. Cholesterol, a lipid-like molecule, is an essential component of every cell membrane in our bodies. However, when cholesterol levels become too high, it can lead to a buildup of cholesterol-carrying particles in our blood vessels, a condition known as atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis is a major risk factor for CVD, which includes heart attacks and strokes – the leading causes of death worldwide. Alarmingly, the global COVID-19 death toll from 2020 until 2024 now cause 7.04 million reported deaths, however CVDs are the leading cause of death globally with an estimation of 20.5 million people who died from CVDs in 2021, nearly 3 times of COVID-19.
The good news is that atherosclerosis is preventable and treatable, but early detection is crucial. That's where cholesterol testing comes in, particularly the measurement of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to the accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries, narrowing them and restricting blood flow. By knowing your LDL cholesterol level, you can take steps to manage it through lifestyle changes, such as a healthy diet and regular exercise, or medication if necessary.
This Cholesterol Day, we urge you to take charge of your heart health by getting your cholesterol levels checked. It's a simple step that could save your life. Remember, cardiovascular disease often develops silently, without any warning signs or symptoms. Don't wait until it's too late. Be proactive, know your numbers, and take action to protect your heart.
Join us in spreading awareness about the importance of cholesterol education and LDL-C awareness. Together, we can reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease and promote a healthier future for all.
For more info on DiaSys' Lipid panel refer to the website.
More info on Cholesterol Day published by Lipid-Liga.
References:
1. World Heart Report 2023: Confronting the World’s Number One Killer. Geneva, Switzerland. World Heart Federation. 2023.
2. Centers for Disease Control (CDC). Know Your Risk for High Cholesterol. Webpage: www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/risk_factors.htm
3. Mendis S, Puska P, Norrving B. Global Atlas on Cardiovascular Disease Prevention and Control. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization in collaboration with the World Heart Federation and the World Stroke Organization; 2011.
4. World Health Organization. (2016). Raised total cholesterol (≥5.0 mmol/L), Data by WHO region. Retrieved January 9, 2019 from apps.who.int/gho/data/view.main.2570
5. World Health Organization. Prevention of Cardiovascular Disease: Guidelines for Assessment and Management of Cardiovascular Risk. Geneva, Switzerland: World Health Organization; 2007.