Home >  Cardiology MDTV >  Cardiology Shorts >  Study reveals coronary...

Study reveals coronary atherosclerosis prevalent even in low-risk adults with normal cholesterol levels

By - Yakshi Chugh
Published On 2024-08-10 03:00 GMT   |   Update On 2024-08-10 03:00 GMT
Advertisement
In a recent study published in the journal JACC Advances, researchers examined the presence of coronary atherosclerosis using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) in asymptomatic adults without traditional risk factors based on their serum levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), non-high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (non-HDL-C), and apolipoprotein B (apoB). They found that coronary atherosclerosis is common, and the prevalence increases with increasing levels of atherogenic lipoproteins, even in low-risk adults without traditional risk factors.
Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ASCVD) is a leading cause of mortality worldwide, primarily due to coronary atherosclerosis, which begins early and progresses over time. Elevated LDL-C is a major contributor to ASCVD, and lowering LDL-C levels is essential for prevention. Traditionally, LDL-C levels of ≥160 mg/dL were considered elevated, while levels <100 mg/dL were deemed optimal. However, these thresholds may still be inadequate for preventing atherosclerosis or ASCVD.
Advertisement
Data for the present study included a total of 1,033 participants aged 40–65 years. All participants were free of clinically symptomatic cardiovascular disease and were not undergoing lipid-lowering therapy. A subgroup of 184 participants with optimal risk factors was also identified. Individuals with high-risk conditions such as obesity, high creatinine levels, asthma, cancer, or pregnancy were excluded from the study. The median age of the participants was 51 years. Data on demographics, clinical history, and coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) imaging were collected. Coronary atherosclerosis was diagnosed using the Agatson method and classified according to the American Heart Association guidelines.
The study cohort had median serum LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and apoB levels of 125, 144, and 94 mg/dL, respectively. A majority of the participants had a lower predicted 10-year ASCVD risk, with over 86% having <5% risk. Men showed a higher body mass index, atherogenic lipoprotein levels, and ASCVD risk compared to women.
In conclusion, the study suggests that among asymptomatic, apparently healthy, middle-aged adults without traditional ASCVD risk factors, coronary atherosclerosis is common even at serum cholesterol levels considered to be normal. The condition's prevalence increases with higher LDL-C, non-HDL-C, and apoB. Despite this population's relatively infrequent high-risk plaque features, healthcare professionals should consider lowering serum atherogenic lipoproteins through diet, lifestyle changes, or medication to potentially prevent or delay coronary atherosclerosis and improve their health outcomes.
References: Serum Lipoproteins are Associated with Coronary Atherosclerosis in Asymptomatic U.S. Adults Without Traditional Risk Factors. Faridi, K. et al., JACC Advances, 7_Part_1 (2024), DOI:10.1016/j.jacadv.2024.101049,https://www.jacc.org/doi/10.1016/j.jacadv.2024.101049
Full View
Tags:    
Article Source : JACC Advances

Disclaimer: This website is primarily for healthcare professionals. The content here does not replace medical advice and should not be used as medical, diagnostic, endorsement, treatment, or prescription advice. Medical science evolves rapidly, and we strive to keep our information current. If you find any discrepancies, please contact us at corrections@medicaldialogues.in. Read our Correction Policy here. Nothing here should be used as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. We do not endorse any healthcare advice that contradicts a physician's guidance. Use of this site is subject to our Terms of Use, Privacy Policy, and Advertisement Policy. For more details, read our Full Disclaimer here.

NOTE: Join us in combating medical misinformation. If you encounter a questionable health, medical, or medical education claim, email us at factcheck@medicaldialogues.in for evaluation.

Yakshi Chugh

With a graduation in Journalism and Mass Communication from Amity University, Yakshi Chugh embarked on a journey to explore the dynamic intersection of media and healthcare. In 2024, she joined Medical Dialogues, driven by a passion to enhance healthcare journalism and deliver insightful, impactful content to readers.

Comments Policy
Our comments section is governed by our Comments Policy . By posting comments at Medical Dialogues you automatically agree with our Comments Policy , Terms And Conditions and Privacy Policy .

Similar News

Shedding Weight, Losing Muscle: Study Links GLP-1 Drugs to Reduced Muscle Mass

High-Potency Statins Found Most Effective in Lowering Bad Cholesterol: Study

New Tool Can Calculate Heart Age and Reveal Hidden Cardiovascular Risks: JAMA

Non-Invasive Saliva Test May Detect Early Signs of Diabetes and Obesity: Study Finds

Exercise Rehab Eases Irregular Heart Rhythm and Improves Mental Health: Study Finds

Even Few Workouts a Week Could Lower Death Risk for People with Diabetes: Study Suggests

Want Lower Blood Pressure? This Juice May Help, Study Finds Out

AI ECG Tool Detects Hidden Heart Disease More Accurately Than Doctors: Study Finds