Recognition and treatment of hypercholesterolemia in a family practice center.

Elevated levels of serum cholesterol are a major risk factor for coronary artery disease, yet few studies have investigated the extent to which practicing physicians recognize and treat their patients with hyperlipidemia. A retrospective chart review was performed on 93 patients who had documented cholesterol levels greater than or equal to 6.20 mmol/L (240 mg/dL) in an outpatient setting to determine the degree of recognition and treatment of hypercholesterolemia. Hypercholesterolemia was diagnosed in 66 percent of patients, dietary recommendations were made in 46 percent, and lipid-lowering medication was prescribed in only 6 percent. Lipid profiles or high-density lipoprotein levels were determined in 22 percent, and thiazide diuretics were being prescribed for 32 percent. There was a trend toward greater recognition and treatment in patients with cholesterol levels greater than 7.75 mmol/L (300 mg/dL) and in patients less than 70 years of age. These results suggest that physician recognition of hypercholesterolemia is greater when compared with previous studies, but more aggressive diagnosis and intervention are needed. Greater utilization of lipid-profile analysis in hypercholesterolemic patients should also be encouraged.