Classification of Dyslipidaemias

Dyslipidaemias may be inherited (if you have a positive family history of hyperlipidaemia, your risk for developing it increases) or acquired (through unhealthy lifestyle choices).

There are also some conditions which can secondarily increase cholesterol levels. These include conditions such as diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure, hypothyroidism, nephrotic syndrome, pregnancy, alcohol abuse, cholestasis and certain drugs (eg. Beta-blockers, corticosteroids, diuretics, oral contraceptives).

Screening for Hypercholesterolaemia

Screening for Total Cholesterol and HDL-cholesterol can be done without fasting. If total cholesterol levels are found to be raised, then you should have your blood tested for Triglycerides and LDL-cholesterol after a fasting period of between 10 – 12 hours.

The following groups should get tested:

• Patients with diabetes

• Patients with CHD, strokes or peripheral artery disease

• Those with a strong family history of hyperlipidaemia

• Those with other risk factors for CHD

• Those having general health screening done