2017 news on cholesterol

Here are some notable news stories and developments related to cholesterol from 2017:

  1. New cholesterol guidelines released: In November 2017, the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC) released new guidelines for the prevention of cardiovascular disease, which included updated recommendations for cholesterol management. The guidelines emphasized the importance of considering an individual's overall cardiovascular risk, rather than just their cholesterol levels, when making treatment decisions.
  2. Statin therapy may not be necessary for everyone: A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in February 2017 found that many people with low levels of "bad" LDL cholesterol may not need to take statins, which are commonly used to lower cholesterol. The study suggested that other factors, such as blood pressure and body mass index, may be more important indicators of cardiovascular risk.
  3. New cholesterol-lowering medications approved: In 2017, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved two new cholesterol-lowering medications: Repatha (evolocumab) and Praluent (alirocumab). These medications, known as PCSK9 inhibitors, work by blocking a protein that helps regulate cholesterol levels in the liver.
  4. Cholesterol testing may not be necessary for everyone: A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) in August 2017 found that many people who are at low risk of developing cardiovascular disease may not need to undergo routine cholesterol testing. The study suggested that other factors, such as family history and lifestyle, may be more important indicators of cardiovascular risk.
  5. Dietary changes may be more effective than medication: A study published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC) in June 2017 found that a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may be more effective at lowering cholesterol levels than medication. The study suggested that dietary changes may be a more effective and sustainable way to manage cholesterol levels.
  6. Cholesterol levels may not be the only factor in cardiovascular risk: A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine (NEJM) in October 2017 found that cholesterol levels may not be the only factor in determining cardiovascular risk. The study suggested that other factors, such as blood pressure, body mass index, and smoking status, may be more important indicators of cardiovascular risk.

These are just a few examples of the news and developments related to cholesterol from 2017. If you have any specific questions or concerns about cholesterol or cardiovascular health, I'd be happy to help!