LDL-C is often known as the “bad” kind of cholesterol, and it lives up to its notoriety by building up in the arteries at elevated levels, increasing the risk for atherosclerosis, a buildup of plaque in the blood vessels. LDL-C levels are most likely to be elevated in a person who maintains a diet high in saturated and trans fats.
Researchers looked at 31,619 with preexisting IHD and at least 80 percent “adherent” to statin treatment. Each patient in the study had been receiving statin treatment for at least one year.
- heart attack
- unstable angina
- stroke
- angioplasty
- bypass
- death
The researchers from the study are hesitant to apply their results to a wide variety of IHD cases until further studies can be completed. "Our results do not provide support for a blanket principle that lower LDL-C is better for all patients in secondary prevention," they decided.
Regardless, most patients with stable IHD are recommended by doctors to receive long-term treatment with statins to reduce their risk of “recurring cardiovascular events.”
Sources: The JAMA Network Journals, MedlinePlus, NC Research Campus