Family and hypercholesterolemia

NEW YORK, July 17 (Praxis Press) Familial hypercholesterolemia is an inherited condition characterized by high cholesterol levels and an increased risk of heart disease. About 1 in 500 people are affected by this condition and could benefit from cholesterol-lowering drugs. However, a recent study (see paper) found that only one quarter of affected people were being diagnosed, and children and young adults were most likely to be underdiagnosed. When a family has a history of heart disease at a young age, testing can identify members with familial hypercholesterolemia, and early treatment can reduce their risk of heart disease.