Around five million Brits could be unknowingly living with a condition that significantly increases their risk of heart attacks, according to shocking new health warnings.
Experts have raised the alarm about undiagnosed high cholesterol, describing it as a "silent killer" that's creating a public health time bomb across the nation.
The Silent Threat in Our Bloodstream
High cholesterol, which often shows no symptoms, can lead to dangerous plaque buildup in arteries. This condition dramatically raises the chances of:
- Heart attacks
- Strokes
- Other cardiovascular emergencies
Why Are So Many Cases Going Undetected?
Health professionals point to several worrying factors:
- Lack of routine screening for younger adults
- Misconceptions about who's at risk
- No visible symptoms until serious damage occurs
"We're seeing perfectly healthy-looking people in their 30s and 40s suffering major cardiac events," warned one leading cardiologist.
Who Should Get Checked?
While cholesterol checks are routine for over-40s in England, experts now recommend earlier testing for those with:
- Family history of heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Sedentary lifestyles
The NHS advises all adults to get their cholesterol levels checked at least once every five years.
Simple Steps to Reduce Risk
Fortunately, there are effective ways to manage cholesterol levels:
- Adopt a Mediterranean-style diet
- Increase physical activity
- Quit smoking
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Consider medication if lifestyle changes aren't enough
With cardiovascular disease remaining one of the UK's biggest killers, this warning serves as a crucial reminder that prevention and early detection could save thousands of lives.
