Hypercholesterolemia and Dyslipidemia – The Impact of Elevated Lipid Levels on Health
Isabella Taylor
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Diets Premium Expert • 25.09.2026
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Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian:
This article has been peer-reviewed for adherence to IŻŻ, WHO, and PTGiP clinical nutritional standards.
| Diets Premium Expert Isabella Taylor | min read 7 min | Scientifically reviewed by a clinical dietitian 25.09.2026 |
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Key Takeaways
Excessive cholesterol levels or irregular lipid levels are a problem that an increasing number of individuals are facing. Epidemiological studies indicate that this can affect up to 60% of Poles aged 20 to 74 years (W. Drygas et al., 2015). Dyslipidemia, or disorders in the fat content in the blood, can occur independently or together with chronic diseases, hence the importance of understanding the basic concepts associated with this condition, its consequences, and treatment methods.
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Dyslipidemia – lipid metabolism regulation
To grasp the mechanisms of dyslipidemia, one must first understand the principles of lipid metabolism in the body. A crucial role in this process is played by lipoproteins, which are complex molecules combining fatty and protein components. Their primary function is to deliver fats to tissues, where they can be stored, used as an energy source, or serve as building blocks for essential substances such as hormones and bile acids.
Types of lipoproteins and their role in the body (F.. Mach et al. 2020)
Chylomicrons facilitate the transport of dietary fats. VLDL (very low-density lipoproteins) and IDL (intermediate-density lipoproteins) convey fatty molecules synthesized in the liver. LDL (low-density lipoproteins) are responsible for transporting liver-derived fatty molecules, which are utilized in the synthesis of sex hormones, steroids, or vitamin D in the skin. HDL (high-density lipoproteins) facilitate the return of fatty molecules from tissues to the liver, where they are used for fatty acid production. The aforementioned lipoproteins (excluding chylomicrons) can penetrate vascular walls due to their small size. The presence of LDL, VLDL, and IDL in arterial walls triggers complex reactions leading to fat deposition. This results in luminal narrowing and atherosclerotic plaque formation, impairing blood flow. As atherosclerosis progresses, plaque rupture and complete vessel occlusion may occur, disrupting oxygen and nutrient delivery to organs. This can lead to strokes, heart attacks, and, in severe cases, death. In lipid metabolism, triglycerides—composed of glycerol and fatty acids—play a crucial role as the primary fat storage and energy source in the body.
Dyslipidemia: Definition and Etiology
Dyslipidemia refers to an imbalance in blood lipid and lipoprotein levels. Depending on the nature of the deviations, the following types can be identified: hypercholesterolemia, characterized by elevated total or LDL cholesterol, atherogenic dyslipidemia, marked by high triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol, and hypertriglyceridemia, involving excessive triglyceride levels. These conditions are classified under ICD-10 (E78) and ICD-11 (5C80). Dyslipidemia may stem from genetic factors (e.g., familial hypercholesterolemia) or environmental influences (e.g., poor diet). Additionally, it can accompany other diseases (e.g., hypothyroidism, type 2 diabetes) or result from medication use (e.g., steroids).
Dyslipidemia – lipid profile assessment
To diagnose lipid metabolism disorders, a blood sample is analyzed to determine the lipid profile, which includes total cholesterol (TC), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), and triglycerides (TG). According to the guidelines of the European Society of Cardiology and the European Atherosclerosis Society, the target values for low-risk patients are as follows: ≤ 4 mmol/l (≤ 155 mg/dl) for total cholesterol (TC), > 150 mg/dl (1.7 mmol/l) for triglycerides (TG), and > 116 mg/dl (3 mmol/l) for LDL cholesterol (LDL-C) (F. Mach et al. 2020). Previously, HDL-C levels of > 40 mg/dl (1 mmol/l) in men and > 48 mg/dl (1.2 mmol/l) in women were considered optimal; however, since 2019, no specific target values have been established. Nevertheless, it is recognized that low HDL-C levels increase the risk of cardiovascular events, including myocardial infarction, as well as mortality in patients with coronary artery disease (F. Mach et al. 2020).
Dyslipidemia – Signs and health impacts
Dyslipidemia typically presents without symptoms, often remaining undetected for extended periods. Elevated lipid levels contribute to cardiovascular conditions (such as atherosclerosis or coronary artery disease) and may indirectly influence hypertension. Potential consequences include: heightened fatigue, diminished physical endurance, mobility issues (due to peripheral artery disease), severe abdominal pain (from intestinal vascular changes), and kidney damage. Poorly healing wounds are also commonly observed. The most severe complications involve infarctions, where blood flow to an organ is disrupted, leading to ischemia and potential tissue necrosis—affecting organs like the heart, brain, or intestines. An infarction can result in permanent organ damage, impaired function (potentially causing disability), and, in extreme cases, death. Given the significant risk and absence of early warning signs, it is advisable to regularly monitor lipid profiles and promptly consult a physician if abnormal results are detected to determine appropriate treatment.
Dyslipidemia Treatment Approaches
Similar to many other conditions, dyslipidemia can be managed through both pharmacological interventions and lifestyle modifications. The type and extent of therapy are tailored individually by the physician; in some instances, altering existing habits suffices to achieve desired outcomes, while in others, pharmacological treatments become necessary. Medications used in dyslipidemia treatment include statins, which inhibit cholesterol synthesis in the liver; cholesterol absorption inhibitors, which reduce intestinal cholesterol uptake; bile acid sequestrants, which lower circulating bile acids; and PCSK9 inhibitors, which decrease LDL cholesterol levels. Additionally, lifestyle changes—such as a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and whole grains, avoidance of saturated fats and processed foods, regular physical activity, and smoking cessation—have been shown to positively influence lipid profiles. Research indicates that these measures can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Isabella Taylor
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