Diet and coronary heart disease. Helping patients reduce serum cholesterol level

Although coronary heart disease (CHD) remains the No. 1 cause of death in the United States, the CHD mortality rate has shown a recent decline. This has been attributed to lower fat consumption in the general population, with associated lower serum cholesterol levels. Thus, diet seems to be an important factor in controlling cholesterol level. Acting on this hypothesis, primary care physicians can help patients make appropriate dietary changes. We believe that persons at risk of hypercholesterolemia need to be identified in adolescence by measurement of total serum cholesterol level and that testing should be done every two years after age 25. The American Heart Association's prudent diet is recommended for all patients, especially those with a serum cholesterol level above 240 mg/dl. When dietary restriction does not bring the level within this limit, use of cholesterol-lowering agents is considered. To be lasting, dietary change must be gradual; realistic immediate and long-term goals should be established. In addition, the diet must be nutritionally sound and the patient must receive support from family members.