A Review on Risk Factors/Indicators and Effects of Hyperlipidemia

Hyperlipidemia or hyperlipoproteinemia is the condition of abnormally elevated levels of any or all lipids and/or lipoproteins in the blood. Hyperlipidemia may be defined by serum total cholesterol >240mg/dL and/or LDL cholesterol >160mg/dL and/or total cholesterol: HDL ratio >5.7 and/or total triglycerides > 150mg/dL in adults. Objective: The objective of this article is to review up-to-date findings (risk factors/indicators, metabolic effects/complications and prevention/control mechanisms) for such an increasing aspect of metabolic syndrome illnesses in most parts of the world population. Results: Many inter-related causes and risk factors are considered for the development of hyperlipidemia and other chronic illnesses of metabolic syndrome (diabetes and hypertension). Many current studies reveal that there are significant differences in blood lipid levels and the prevalence of hyperlipidemia between ethnic groups, different dietary habits, life style and level of physical activity, as well as genetic background. Exogenous factors, such as dietary intake (fat, cholesterol), alcohol, use of contraceptives and other pharmacologic agents are indicated as the main secondary causes and risk factors of hyperlipidemia in adults. Once developed, hyperlipidemia results in various effects/complications to the body including atherosclerosis, cholilithiasis and others. Conclusion and Recommendations: An intricate relationship of cause and effect appears to exist among the known chronic metabolic illnesses (diabetes mellitus, obesity, hypertension and hyperlipidemia) which show a growing burden on our today's society in particular. Multiple strategies (including dietary measures) have to be considered to maintain normal blood lipid levels. Other secondary causes of hyperlipidemia (diabetes mellitus, alcohol intake, weight gain, physical activity and drugs) need to be included in avoiding hyperlipidemia and its effects/complications.