[Cholesterol screening within the scope of preventive strategies]

The "Consensus-Conference" of the European Atherosclerosis Association held in June 1986, came to an agreement, that all adults with cholesterol levels above 200 mg/dl should receive medical attention. First representative investigations in the Federal Republic of Germany showed that levels below 200 mg/dl are found in less than 30% of persons aged 30 to 59 years. 76% of all patients who where examined didn't know their own cholesterol level. These data verify the urgency of intensive preventive actions. Cholesterol screening without simultaneous supply of information for behaviour modification (especially nutrition education), would be of little use. Therefore in the proposed screening-concept communicative procedures are of great significance. In addition, cooperation between physicians, psychologists, teachers and suitable organisations is necessary.