Cholesterol assessment and management in clinical practice

Everyone, including patients concerned about their risk of developing dementia, should have their cholesterol monitored and hypercholesterolaemia, if present, should be treated as appropriate.  Hypercholesterolaemia at midlife increases the risk of dementia, as well as heart disease.

The RACGP Red Book briefly outlines the guidelines for detecting and managing high cholesterol in primary care practice.  Lipids should be measured in adults 45 and over at least every 5 years, and those with other risk factors or conditions may require earlier and/or more regular checks.

The Heart Foundation’s Position statement on lipid management provides detailed guidelines for assessment, diagnosis and treatment.  The 2005 statement is an update of the 2001 lipid management guidelines, a summary of which is also available at the website.