Trends and Predictive Factors of Dyslipidemia in the Elderly in Taiwan Based on a 3-Year Longitudinal Study

Background: Dyslipidemia is one of the factors that increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. The prevalence of dyslipidemia is higher in the older population. This study aimed to identify the predictive factors of dyslipidemia in the elderly population in Taiwan. Methods: This was a longitudinal follow-up study. Data of a total of 1583 adults aged 65 or above who lived in Taipei and participated in a yearly health examination were analyzed. The levels of total cholesterol and triglyceride measured for each subject were used to assess dyslipidemia. The generalized estimating equations method was employed to investigate the predictors of dyslipidemia. Results: The results showed that the significant predictive factors for hypercholesterolemia, as measured by odds ratios (ORs), were the female gender (1.953), the total cholesterol level in 2008 (1.036), the year 2010 (0.742), no alcohol consumption (0.751), use of cardiovascular medications (0.506), and use of lipid-lowering medications (0.574). The triglyceride measurement in 2008, use of anti-hyperglycemic drugs, and a duration of education greater than 9 years were significant factors relating to hypertriglyceridemia, the odds ratios being 1.021, 1.912, and 0.720, respectively. Conclusion: The people at high risk of developing hypercholesterolemia in Taiwan were female, aged between 65 and 75, with a high alcohol consumption, a low fruit and vegetable consumption, and no use of lipid-lowering drugs. Future studies are needed to explore the barriers that impede older adults from managing their dyslipidemia and seeking appropriate treatment.