Today's Edition
SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)
Initiated in 2012 by the Family Heart Foundation, Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) Awareness Day is observed every September 24 during National Cholesterol Education Month to promote awareness of this health condition that causes high cholesterol.
FH is a hereditary condition that greatly heightens the risk of heart disease and stroke.
In an interview with Aletihad on FH Awareness Day, Dr. Wameed Hassan, Consultant of Family Medicine at Imperial College London Diabetes Centre (ICLDC), clarified the key differences between FH and regular high cholesterol.
"FH is a hereditary condition that results in significantly elevated levels of LDL, or 'bad' cholesterol, in the blood. This leads to a heightened risk of early heart attacks and other severe cardiovascular conditions. The main concern with FH is its potential to cause life-threatening heart disease if not treated promptly, as the condition starts at birth and requires early intervention," Dr. Hassan said.
He highlighted the importance of early screening for individuals with a family history of FH, as it helps in preventing severe complications.
"The longer high cholesterol levels remain above average in our blood, the greater the risk of cardiovascular disease," Dr. Hassan said.
As for treatment, it is quite similar to that for any other cholesterol-related condition, according to Dr Hassan, who stressed the importance of lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise, alongside medication.
He noted that treatment options include oral tablets as well as injectable medications for those with severe cases.
Dr. Hassan underlined the need to avoid processed and junk foods, noting that these unhealthy choices can adversely affect everyone, particularly those with FH. Dr. Hassan emphasised that early detection, treatment, and genetic testing, are crucial for effectively managing FH.
He also noted that treatment outcomes can vary significantly from one person to a person as responses to treatment depend on various factors.
"There is treatment for FH, but it should be a lifelong commitment," he said, noting that with proper management and regular check-ups, those with FH can effectively maintain their health.
