Social Determinants of Health

Panelists discuss how social determinants of health profoundly shape cholesterol control and patient engagement. Income, access to transportation, education, and health care coverage all influence adherence to low-density lipoprotein (LDL)–lowering therapy.

They emphasize that patients facing economic hardship are less likely to fill prescriptions, attend follow-up visits, or afford nonstatin agents. Cultural and language barriers further complicate communication around risk and treatment.

Panelists advocate for patient-centered strategies that integrate social support, care navigation, and community-based screening programs to reduce disparities in LDL cholesterol management.