Cholesterol is a type of fat (or lipid) that is found in our bodies and present in many foods we eat. It plays an important role in building cell membranes and in the production of certain hormones. Our livers produce most of the cholesterol our body needs, but it is also found in foods like meat, poultry and full-fat dairy products.

Cholesterol travels through our bloodstreams in small packages called lipoproteins, there are two main types known as low-density (also known as bad cholesterol) and high-density (also known as good cholesterol).

Monitoring cholesterol is an important part of health assessments because high cholesterol levels can pose several risks including plaque build-up on the walls of arteries, heart disease and stroke. There is a new cholesterol monitoring service being introduced into community pharmacies known as ‘PocDoc’. With a single blood sample obtained via finger-pricking, we can test your levels and provide instant results within the pharmacy. Pharmacists can then provide an interpretation of the results and put an action plan in place to help manage your cholesterol levels. This service aims to provide quick and accurate results making it easier for you to learn about your health without the need for a routine blood test at your GP.

The treatment for high cholesterol consists of both lifestyle changes and the use of medications. 

Lifestyle changes include

• Eating a ‘heart-healthy’ diet that is low in saturated fats and incorporates foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as salmon, mackerel, flaxseeds and walnuts. 
• Limiting processed foods
• Replacing full-fat cheese/yoghurt with low fat.
• Increasing exercising levels and maintaining a healthy weight. 
• Quit smoking.
• Limit alcohol intake.
• Managing stress within our lives.

The most common medication used to treat high cholesterol levels are known as ‘statins’. Their main role is to block the enzyme that produces cholesterol which helps to lower the levels in our bodies. These medications are used when lifestyle changes have not been effective in lowering cholesterol levels to a healthy range.

Management of cholesterol levels should be tailored to each individual’s specific needs including consideration of lifestyle modifications, medication and regular monitoring to effectively optimise cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.