Too much cholesterol in the blood can lead to cardiovascular disease — America's No. 1 killer. The good news is, you can lower your cholesterol and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke. Take responsibility for managing your cholesterol levels. Whether you've been prescribed medication or advised to make diet and lifestyle changes to help manage your cholesterol, carefully follow your doctor's recommendations.
Lifestyle Changes
Your diet, weight, physical activity and exposure to tobacco smoke all affect your cholesterol level — and these factors may be controlled by:
Drug Therapy for Cholesterol
For some people, lifestyle changes alone aren't enough to reach healthy cholesterol levels. Your doctor may prescribe medication. Learn about:
Helpful Tools
Learn the facts about cholesterol, have regular screenings and, if you need to lower your cholesterol level, work with your healthcare professionals to set up a plan with the help of our cholesterol-lowering tools:
Take control of your heart health! View the American Heart Association’s award-winning, easy-to use, cardiac rehab program that can help you and your loved ones develop healthy living skills, prevent future heart problems, and communicate more effectively with your healthcare team, friends and family.
This content is reviewed regularly. Last updated 11/03/08.
