Feature|Articles|September 24, 2024

A Silent Risk: The Critical Role of Awareness and Early Detection in Familial Hypercholesterolemia

September 24 celebrates Familial Hypercholesterolemia Awareness Day, which recognizes the importance of screening measures, education, and advocacy in a lesser-known, underdiagnosed cardiovascular condition.

September is celebrated as National Cholesterol Education Month, with September 24th marking Familial Hypercholesterolemia Awareness Day. Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited genetic condition that can be life-threatening if untreated. This genetic mutation leads to extremely heightened levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) that can be observed from birth. The drastic build-up of cholesterol contributes to a variety of early-onset cardiovascular issues, such as heart disease, aortic stenosis, and heart attacks.¹