Dr. Huynh Thanh Kieu, Head of Cardiology Department 1 at Tam Anh District 7 General Clinic, states that blood fat (blood lipids) refers to fats circulating in the blood, with cholesterol and triglyceride being the most important. Dyslipidemia occurs when low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) or triglyceride levels are high, while high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) levels are low.

This condition often progresses silently, without symptoms, but can lead to atherosclerosis. Over time, atherosclerotic plaques narrow blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the heart, brain, and other organs. When these plaques rupture, blood clots can form, causing a heart attack or stroke. Without timely emergency treatment, there is a risk of permanent heart or brain damage, or even death.

Dr. Kieu identifies 7 common causes of dyslipidemia:

Genetics

Family history can be an underlying cause of high blood fat levels, especially if multiple relatives have experienced heart attack, atherosclerosis, angina, or hypertension.

Doctor advises patients on how to prevent dyslipidemia. *Photo: Tam Anh General Hospital*.

Genetic factors influence the regulation and metabolism of fats and cholesterol. These genes are inherited from parents; in some cases, genetic disorders prevent the body from eliminating LDL-C, leading to familial hypercholesterolemia. This explains why many young patients (under 20), even those with a lean physique or healthy lifestyle, suffer from dyslipidemia, according to Dr. Kieu.

Unhealthy Diet

Fast food (fried chicken, french fries, hamburgers), processed foods (sausages, hot dogs, ham), and sweets (candies, bubble tea, pastries) are high in saturated and trans fats. These can increase LDL cholesterol and decrease HDL cholesterol, promoting the development of atherosclerotic plaques.

Lack of Physical Activity

A sedentary lifestyle reduces the body's ability to metabolize lipids. Additionally, accumulated calories lead to fat tissue formation, increasing triglycerides and resulting in dyslipidemia. Individuals should exercise at least 30 minutes daily, at least 5 days a week, to reduce bad cholesterol and increase good cholesterol.

Smoking

Smoking damages blood vessels, reduces good cholesterol, and increases the risk of bad cholesterol accumulation in artery walls, causing atherosclerosis. Smokers face a higher risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, peripheral artery disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm, and lung cancer compared to non-smokers or those who quit smoking over 15 years ago.

Excessive Alcohol Consumption

Excessive alcohol consumption increases blood triglycerides and damages the liver, an organ vital for fat metabolism. The risk is particularly high in individuals who are overweight, have abdominal obesity, or suffer from metabolic syndrome.

Chronic Stress

During stress, the adrenal glands secrete cortisol and adrenaline to prepare the body for pressure. These two hormones stimulate the liver to release glucose and fatty acids into the blood, providing quick energy for muscles and the brain. If this occurs only occasionally, blood fat levels may rise slightly and then return to normal. However, with chronic stress, triglycerides and bad cholesterol increase, while good cholesterol decreases, leading to dyslipidemia.

Chronic Diseases

Individuals with chronic diseases such as nephrotic syndrome, diabetes, hypothyroidism, or lupus erythematosus have a higher risk of developing dyslipidemia.

Dr. Kieu recommends that healthy individuals over 20 years old should have their blood lipid levels checked at least once every 5 years, or more frequently (once every 6-12 months). Those at high risk, such as men over 45, women over 55, individuals with a family history of high cholesterol, early cardiovascular disease, underlying conditions (hypertension, diabetes, overweight, obesity), or who consume excessive alcohol, smoke, or use stimulants, need more frequent check-ups.

Patients experiencing symptoms such as angina, pain during exertion, fatigue, or reduced mobility should seek medical attention promptly.

Thu Ha