Key points from article :
Researchers from the University of Cambridge, led by British Heart Foundation (BHF) professor Ziad Mallat, have found that managing cholesterol levels earlier in life is crucial for preventing heart disease. Published in Nature, the study highlights that exposure to fluctuating or high cholesterol levels during youth significantly increases the risk of developing atherosclerosis, a condition where arteries narrow due to fatty deposits, potentially leading to heart attacks and strokes.
In experiments with mice, the team discovered that intermittent spikes in cholesterol—rather than consistent high levels—posed the greatest risk for atherosclerosis. This fluctuation may impair the function of immune cells in the arteries, speeding up the disease’s progression. The findings emphasize the harmful effects of cholesterol variation, not just prolonged high levels.
The study also analysed data from the Cardiovascular Risk in Young Finns Study, showing that individuals exposed to high cholesterol levels as children had a greater build-up of arterial plaque by their 50s. Mallat stresses the importance of monitoring cholesterol from a young age, as early intervention can significantly reduce heart disease risk later in life.
