Cholesterol knowledge and practices among patients compared with physician management in a university primary care setting

Lowering elevated serum cholesterol has been shown to reduce the risk of symptomatic coronary heart disease. The National Institutes of Health and National Cholesterol Education Program recommend that all adults obtain a cholesterol screening and state that desirable adult levels are 200 mg/dl) and counseled 17%. Results indicate a good level of knowledge and interest in cholesterol as a health risk even in this group of patients with the multiple problems associated with low socioeconomic status. Knowledge of personal risk status, however, was poor. Physicians need to improve documentation, counseling, and monitoring of patients with elevated cholesterol levels. Long-term follow-up is needed to evaluate efficacy.