Forget cholesterol, check your artery calcification score

TUESDAY, JANUARY 29, 2019

Re: “Greatest protection against heart disease is just a click away”, Have Your Say, yesterday.

I see that Eric Bahrt is once again struggling to squeeze a bit of sense from his tiny tube of toothpaste. Perhaps the following will help.
Cholesterol is necessary for the formation of memories and is crucial for neurological function. It also affects the formation of serotonin, a hormone that is involved in regulating mood.
Studies have found that people with insufficient levels of cholesterol have a higher chance of developing depression and suicidal thoughts, while others may experience an increased capacity for violence and aggression (take note, Eric).
A high amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream demonstrates that the body is working to repair or create new cells; it is not a reliable indicator of heart disease.
By far the most accurate indicator of heart disease risk – and risk of associated causes of mortality – is the coronary artery calcification score, calculated with a non-invasive and convenient imaging test now widely available in Thailand.
Cholesterol is not an enemy to be conquered by statin drugs, and this realisation is growing among physicians, albeit slowly due to the influence of drug purveyors. 
Readers interested in this subject should do their own research, but be forewarned, recent studies are most important while those from decades ago are likely irrelevant or biased.
Michael Setter
Chon Buri