Author
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WARNICK G R - PACIFIC BIOMETRICS |
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MCNAMARA J R - TUFTS-HNRCA |
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WU L L - UNIV OF UTAH |
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Submitted to: Clinical Chemistry
Publication Type: Book / Chapter Publication Acceptance Date: 6/1/1995 Publication Date: N/A Citation: N/A Interpretive Summary: Not required. Technical Abstract: Lipoproteins are round particles containing fat (triglycerides), cholesterol, and protein. Cholesterol and triglycerides are made in the liver or are absorbed from food. Triglycerides are used for energy; excess amounts are stored as body fat. Cholesterol is used for cell membranes and hormones (insulin, and growth and sex hormones), but too much can cause heart disease. The largest lipoproteins are mostly fat, and are used to take triglycerides to cells for energy. The middle-sized ones, called LDL, carry cholesterol to cells for membranes and hormones. LDL are said to contain 'bad' cholesterol, because, in excess, they form deposits in the heart. The smallest lipoproteins are HDL, and are said to carry 'good' cholesterol, because they return excess cholesterol from cells to the liver for excretion. Correct measurement of cholesterol and triglyceride in lipoproteins is important in determining a person's risk for heart disease. Cholesterol and triglyceride levels tend to rise with age. Exercise and a low- fat, low-cholesterol diet can keep levels down in most people. Some people have diseases which cause too much cholesterol to be made, or not enough to be eliminated. Diet and exercise help, but may not do enough, and then these people need medicine as well. Women tend to have higher levels of 'good' HDL cholesterol than men, due to the influence of female hormones. It is good for people to know their cholesterol values and to try to keep them at desirable levels. Education should help prevent heart disease in the future. |
