Why cholesterol as a central theme in coronary artery disease?

Evidence from epidemiologic studies and clinical trials have conclusively d emonstrated a direct association between coronary artery disease and levels of total and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. Data from a number of studies suggest that even "average" or "normal" cholesterol levels are too high with respect to coronary artery disease risk. Low levels of high-d ensity lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol have also emerged as a coronary artery disease risk. A recent meta-analysis has eliminated much of the controvers y surrounding triglyceride's contribution to coronary artery disease risk, establishing triglyceride levels as an independent risk factor. Lowering li pid levels by any means-including pharmacologic, surgical, and dietary/life style changes-decreases coronary artery disease risk. (C) 1998 by Excerpta Medico, Inc.