BY DR. GREGORY L. MONETA
Hyperlipidemia is an umbrella term that refers to any of several acquired or genetic disorders that result in a high level of lipids (fats, cholesterol and triglycerides) circulating in the blood. These lipids can enter the walls of arteries and increase your risk of developing atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries), which can lead to stroke, heart attack and the need to amputate. The risk of atherosclerosis is higher if you smoke, or if you have or develop diabetes, high blood pressure and kidney failure.
extremely common
More than 3 million people have this genetic disorder in the United States and Europe. It is extremely common for those who live in developed countries and follow a Western high-fat diet.
treatable, usually life-long
Hyperlipidemia is usually chronic, requiring ongoing statin medication to control blood lipid levels.