The Kerryman (South Kerry Edition)
Kerry needs to get grip on cholesterol
THE number of untreated cases of cholesterol levels is worryingly high in Kerry, recent research has revealed.
Some 60 per cent of Kerry adults have abnormal cholesterol levels, and there’s a lack of knowledge out there, The Advanced Lipid Management and Research (ALMAR) Centre at Tallaght University Hospital (TUH) said.
‘Snapshot of lipid levels in the Republic of Ireland in 2017’ was carried out last year. Blood testing of adults between 18 and 92 took place in five locations, including Killarney.
Of 40 people tested in the Best Western Eviston Hotel Killarney in July 2017, ages ranged from 27 to 57, 57 per cent of them female. Cholesterol levels averaged at 4.8 per cent. Total Levels were higher in females due to higher HDL (high density lipoprotein) levels.
Consultant Cardiologist at Tallaght University Hospital Vincent Maher feels there is little hope of an adequate screening strategy or dedicated resources being introduced to hospitals, primary care or the community to diagnose and treat cholesterol-related disorders. He also said the research showed a lack of awareness of cardiovascular diseases.
“Ireland lacks accurate information on the extent of its cholesterol-related problems,” he said. “Studies have shown that, even if identified, treatment levels are inadequate. Therefore screening, together with education and knowledge of appropriate lipid targets, will be necessary to correct this”.
LDL cholesterol levels are linked with cardiovascular disease, while raised triglyceride levels can cause life-threatening pancreatitis. Factors such as poor diet, lack of exercise, hormones, weight and stress levels, together with familial cardiac risk factors, can increase the risk of pancreatitis and cardiac illness.
“What people actually don’t realise is that 80 per cent of cases of high cholesterol and lipid abnormalities comes down to genetics,” Lipid Nurse Manager at TUH Ruth Agar said, adding that everyone show knows their numbers and the risk.
“Reduce saturated fats and increase mono saturated fats. When it is genetic, there are also multiple risk factors such as smoking, diabetes, blood pressure. Every person has a very individual case so things need to be altered in people’s lives according to their situation.”