Ask The Doctors: February 2011

Your question is timely, and very much on the cutting-edge of coronary artery disease (CAD) prevention. High cholesterol, or hyperlipidemia, is a well-known risk factor for CAD development, progression, and heart attack, known to doctors as myocardial infarction (MI). As established by the landmark Framingham Study, old age, male sex, hyperlipidemia, hypertension, smoking, and family history of CAD are also important risk factors. As you mention, it is reassuring that your cholesterol levels are under control.