Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) Is Not Detected by Measuring Cholesterol

Elevated blood cholesterol is a common reason why people see their doctor. Most of us have been told that high cholesterol increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, and we are usually urged to lower it by any means available. But, the problem is that high cholesterol is often harmless, and heart disease can occur in the absence of … Read more

Cardiovascular Risk Factors and Age: Is it all about the cholesterol?

For decades, scientists have been trying to find out what causes heart disease. Although we have gained some knowledge along the way, many questions remain unanswered. Instead of providing clear answers, scientific research often raises a set of new issues that have to be addressed. The American physicist, Thomas S. Kuhn wrote that “to be scientific is among … Read more

Erectile Dysfunction (Impotence) – Impotence Explained

Erectile dysfunction often referred to as impotence, is a common disorder that frequently coexists with cardiovascular disease. It is defined as the inability to get or keep an erection firm enough to have sexual intercourse. It is estimated that erectile dysfunction affects >30% of men between 40 and 70 years of age (1). Cardiovascular disease is a term that … Read more

Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT)

Carotid intima-media thickness (CIMT) is a relatively simple, noninvasive measure that uses ultrasound to detect the presence and extent of atherosclerosis in an artery. Atherosclerosis, the underlying cause of coronary heart disease is characterized by an accumulation of lipids, white blood cells and cell debris in the inner layers of the arterial wall.   Atherosclerotic plaques may cause blockages … Read more