The Center for Cardiac Risk Prevention FAQs

 

What is the most important part of the lipid panel?
The three numbers we basically look at are the low density lipoprotein (LDL), high density lipoprotein (HDL), and triglycerides. Our first treatment is the low density lipoprotein (LDL). This is the part of your lipid panel that causes the buildup of fatty plaque in our arteries. The HDL is the good or protective cholesterol, triglycerides tell us how fat and dense your lipid particles are; they are secondary targets.

 

Can I use nicotine replacement even though I have heart disease?
Yes. We strongly recommend the use of nicotine replacement for smoking cessation. There have been multiple studies that show the safety and efficacy of these products. 

 

Is there a commercial weight loss system or product that you recommend?
No. We do not currently endorse any specific program. We encourage low-caloric, low-fat lifestyle changes when concerned with diet. There are many support groups, such as Weight Watchers that are very effective. There are food replacement programs, such as Medifast, Jenny Craig, and NutriSystem; many people find these helpful.

 

What are statins and why are they always recommended for cardiac prevention?
Statin therapy reduces the risk of LDL cholesterol. It also is antiinflammatory, meaning it decreases the inflammation within our blood vessels leading to reduction in plaque adherence. Although there are other measures to lower LDL, statin therapy is always considered the hallmark treatment. The Clinic is well aware of some of the side effects and concerns related to statin therapy. Please feel free to talk to Susan concerning them.

 

Do I need advanced lipid testing?
Advanced lipid testing tends to be reserved for those people with known strong family history. It can help us determine how aggressive we want to be in your prevention care. Not all insurance companies cover the full bill concerning advanced lipid testing.