Familial Hypercholesterolemia in Asian Populations

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Genetics
• Metabolic Disorders
• Public Health

Background:

• Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an autosomal disorder causing high LDL-cholesterol and premature cardiovascular disease risk.
• Understanding FH prevalence and management in Asian populations is crucial due to disease burden and genetic diversity.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize current knowledge on Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) studies across Asian countries.
• To identify gaps in diagnostic criteria, genetic understanding, and clinical care for FH patients in Asia.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of 28 publications from 16 Asian countries/regions focusing on FH.
• Analysis of reported mean cholesterol levels, FH frequencies, diagnostic criteria, genotypes, and clinical care.

Main Results:

• Significant variation in mean cholesterol levels and FH frequencies across Asian countries, often based on non-standardized criteria.
• Limited availability of specific FH guidelines and low diagnosis rates (3-10%) in participating countries.
• Low awareness and knowledge of FH among healthcare practitioners in Japan, Korea, and Taiwan.

Conclusions:

• Inconsistent diagnostic criteria and lack of country-specific guidelines hinder FH recognition and management in Asia.
• There is a critical need for increased attention, resources, awareness campaigns, improved clinical care, and further research on FH in Asian populations.