Management of cholesterol to reduce the burden of stroke in Asia: consensus statement

Area of Science:

• Neurology
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Stroke is a significant cause of illness and death in Asia.
• There's a notable shift in stroke patterns, with declining hemorrhagic strokes and increasing ischemic strokes.
• Rising hypercholesterolemia prevalence is a key factor in the increase of atherothrombotic ischemic strokes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To establish a consensus on managing stroke and lipid disorders in Asia.
• To address the changing epidemiology of stroke and the role of cholesterol.
• To provide guidance for Asian physicians and patients on hypercholesterolemia management for stroke prevention.

Main Methods:

• A consensus panel of leading Asian experts convened to discuss stroke and lipid management.
• Review of observational epidemiology linking cholesterol to stroke risk.
• Evaluation of clinical trial evidence for cholesterol-lowering interventions in stroke prevention.

Main Results:

• Ischemic stroke incidence is rising due to increased hypercholesterolemia.
• Current stroke guidelines in many Asian countries suggest statins for secondary prevention.
• Widespread implementation of these recommendations and physician/patient education are lacking.

Conclusions:

• There is a critical need for enhanced education on hypercholesterolemia control among Asian physicians and patients.
• Statins are recommended for preventing recurrent ischemic stroke.
• Further clinical trials involving Asian patients, particularly those with intracranial stenosis, are warranted.