NCD Watch

Be Cholesterol Smart

30 Jan 2012 (Mon)

Having an optimal blood cholesterol level is desirable for everyone regardless of their age, sex or whether they have cardiovascular diseases. However, a survey conducted by the Department of Health in 2004/05 which involved analysis of blood cholesterol concentrations of over 1 200 land-based non-institutionalised persons aged 15-84 showed that 36.3% of males and 30.8% of females had cholesterol concentrations at a level regarded as borderline high (5.2% to < 6.2 mmol/L) or high ( > 6.2 mmol/L). The study also revealed that nearly two-thirds (65.3%) of persons who had high blood cholesterol were unaware of their condition.

For an optimal blood cholesterol level, members of the public are urged to eat a balanced diet, be physically active, maintain an optimal weight and waistline, not to smoke, and not to drink excessively. Since high blood cholesterol have no symptoms or signs, people at risk of having high blood cholesterol or cardiovascular diseases should have a blood cholesterol test. For those who do not know their blood cholesterol level, it would be good for them to talk with their family doctor if a baseline cholesterol test is necessary.