Dr. Chudy's Insights on Cholesterol and Statin Use at The Lanby

Managing cholesterol levels is a critical aspect of preventing cardiovascular disease. We asked our Lead Physician, Dr. Chudy to share her expert perspective on the role of statins and alternative approaches to hyperlipidemia management.

The Role of Statins

Statins are widely recognized for their effectiveness in managing hyperlipidemia, especially in individuals at high risk for cardiovascular disease or those with a known cardiovascular condition. Dr. Chudy emphasizes, "Statins are definitely an appropriate form of hyperlipidemia management, particularly for those individuals at high risk for cardiovascular disease or those who have known cardiovascular disease."

Alternative Approaches for Lower-Risk Individuals

For individuals with elevated cholesterol levels who are not at very high risk, Dr. Chudy suggests that lifestyle modifications and supplementation can often be sufficient. "Foundationally, we want to ensure that patients are on a high-fiber, low-saturated fat diet and are exercising routinely," she explains. Supplement regimens, personalized to each patient, may include omega-3, fiber supplementation, plant sterols, and red yeast rice, among others. The effectiveness of these regimens can vary based on the individual's cholesterol levels, consistency in implementing lifestyle changes, and genetic factors.

The Importance of Early Management and Detection

Dr. Chudy underscores the importance of early management and detection, noting that this topic frequently arises in patient consultations. Early intervention is key to preventing the need for statins and reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease in the future. "Allowing patients to undergo further testing with expanded lipid panels, additional cardiac biomarkers such as ApoB, Lp(a), and hsCRP, and imaging such as coronary calcium scores, enables us to further risk stratify these individuals and develop an appropriate protocol," Dr. Chudy explains.

Personalized Care at The Lanby

At The Lanby, the focus is on personalized care, ensuring that each patient's treatment plan is tailored to their specific needs and risk factors. By combining lifestyle modifications, personalized supplement regimens, and comprehensive testing, Dr. Chudy and her team aim to manage cholesterol levels effectively and reduce cardiovascular risk without relying solely on statins. By prioritizing early detection and personalized care, The Lanby is committed to helping patients achieve optimal cardiovascular health. To learn more about our membership and how our Care Team can help you, book a free consult call.