Nutrition Information

Cholesterol - LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein)

by Hratch L Karamanoukian, MD and Pierre Aoukar, MD
Posted: February 20, 2003

When compared to VLDL, LDL (Low density lipoprotein) is a cholesterol enriched particle.

LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) is the “bad” cholesterol. This particle is THE MAJOR particle carrying cholesterol in the body.

When there is a defect in the uptake of the LDL particle, as in familial hypercholesterolemia, plasma LDL-C levels go up. As this particle is atherogenic, this places patients at risk for atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.

In general, a 1 % increase in the LDL-C level may lead to a 2-3 % increase in the risk of developing coronary artery disease.

High LDL-C levels are associated with an increased risk for coronary artery disease and LDL-C is considered the main risk factor in the lipid profile and is the primary target of therapy with diet modification and medication.

Consult your primary care physician, cardiologist or cardiovascular specialist regarding your HDL-C, LDL-C and total cholesterol levels.

Reference:
Excerpt from the book: Everything Is Bad For Your Heart: The A to Z Guide, Hratch L Karamanoukian, MD and Pierre Aoukar, MD. Magalhaes Scientific Press

Date of Article Publication:
in press

Web Site: http://www.diagnosisheart.com