A one-year look at the impact of cholesterol screening, education, and counseling

During 1989 and 1990, we offered cholesterol screening in conjunction with National Medical Laboratory Week. The proportions of subjects categorized as hypercholesterolemic decreased in 1990 in each eligibility category except family members. Active duty subjects decreased from 39% to 30%, retired subjects from 60% to 55%, and civilian subjects from 51% to 43%. These changes were also reflected in significant decreases in the mean cholesterol levels for retired and civilian subjects. The data suggest a downward trend that we hope will continue with active screening, education, and counseling.