Running head: HYPERLIPIDEMIA 1 Hyperlipidemia Denise Richard & Melissa Wilson State University of New York Institute of Technology 2 HYPERLIDIPEMIA Hyperlipidemia Currently over 71 million adults in the United States over the age of 20 have hyperlipidemia, yet only 34 million are currently being treated and only 23 million had their low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol under control ("Vital signs: Prevalence," 2011). Hyperlipidemia is considered an insidious disease, which often goes unrecognized and untreated due to the lack of obvious symptoms (Rosenson, 2013). Despite the absence of symptoms, hyperlipidemia is a leading risk factor in the development of chronic illnesses such as atherosclerosis and coronary heart disease (CHD) which can ultimately cause premature death. (“Prevalence of Cholesterol,”2012; Rosenson, 2013). Fortunately, a person’s risk can be significantly reduced with the implementation of dietary changes, weight loss, regular exercise, and medication therapy (Rosenson, 2013). Given the potential severity of hyperlipidemia, the focus of this literature review is to examine current treatment regimens and determine not only the efficacy of these treatments but also identify the barriers that stand in the way of their implementation. Literature Review An extensive review of the literature was performed to identify relevant research regarding the treatment of hyperlipidemia. The literature review entailed retrieving pertinent information utilizing CINAHL, Medline, Science Direct and PubMed databases through the Cayan Library at the State University of New York Institute of Technology. The search was confined to research literature published within the period of 2009-2014. Fourteen research studies focusing on hyperlipidemia treatment were selected for inclusion. The key words utilized to carry out the search included: “adult hyperlipidemia”, “pediatric hyperlipidemia”, “hyperlipidemia treatment”, as well as “hypercholesterolemia treatment”. HYPERLIDIPEMIA 3 Current State Research has long since established that hyperlipidemia is a leading risk factor in the development of atherosclerosis and CHD, yet the prevalence of uncontrolled high LDL cholesterol, although improving, remains a major health concern ("Vital signs: Prevalence," 2011). Despite evidence that cardiovascular morbidity and mortality can be significantly reduced by regular cholesterol screening and early intervention, this medical condition continues to go undiagnosed and untreated in the United States (Vijan, 2013; “Vital signs: Prevalence”, 2011). A review of data from the National Health and Nutrition Survey conducted by the Center for Disease Control (CDC), examined prevalence, treatment, and control of high LDL-C among adults over the age of 20 (“Vital signs: Prevalence”, 2011). Findings revealed that low income, limited access to healthcare, lack of quality care, and nonadherence to medication regimens all play a major role in the current issue of poor hyperlipidemia control (“Vital signs: Prevalence”, 2011). Current Guidelines While the United States, Europe, and Canada all offer varying guidelines in regards to the management of hyperlipidemia, there is unanimous agreement that therapeutic lifestyle changes are essential and that the LDL cholesterol should be the main target of therapy (Alexander et al., 2009; Ewang-Emukowhate & Wierzbicki, 2013; Last, Ference, & Falleroni, 2011). Currently the most nationally recognized guidelines regarding hyperlipidemia treatment are the Adult Treatment Panel (ATP) III guidelines (see Appendix A), which support a treat to target approach and are considered more aggressive than other guidelines (Last, Ference & Falleroni, 2011). The ATP III guidelines were implemented by the National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) in collaboration with the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, HYPERLIDIPEMIA 4 American College of Cardiology (ACC), and the American Heart Association (AHA) to provide clinicians with standardized practice guidelines to utilize in the treatment of hyperlipidemia in adults (AHA, 2013). The guidelines were not implemented to replace clinical decision making, but rather to provide the health care provider with a standardized reference for treatment options (Stone et al., 2013). Current ATP III guidelines focus not only on treatment of patients with known CHD but also on primary prevention in persons with multiple risk factors (“ATP Guidelines,” 2004). pediatric guidelines. In 2006, the NHLBI spearheaded the development of an expert panel to address research findings suggestive of a correlation between childhood obesity and the development of CHD in adulthood (Allcock, Gardner & Sower, 2009). As a result, comprehensive evidence based guidelines were developed to address the known risk factors in the development of CHD in the pediatric population as a way to assist pediatric practitioners in the promotion, identification and management of pediatric cardiovascular health (“ATP Guidelines,” 2006). Credible Authorities There are a multitude of credible authorities that endorse the use of ATP III guidelines in the management of screening, prevention, and hyperlipidemia treatment. These authorities include but are not limited to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI), American College of Cardiology (ACC), the American Heart Association (AHA), the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), as well as the American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP). 5 HYPERLIDIPEMIA Risk Assessment According to the ATP III guidelines, the initial step in management of hyperlipidemia is to determine CHD risk (Bertoni, Ensley, & Goff, 2012). Risk is determined by lipoprotein levels, the presence of atherosclerotic disease, as well as evidence of major risk factors (“ATP Guidelines,” 2004). Analysis of a person’s fasting lipid panel is performed to determine whether lipoprotein levels are within normal limits. Next, a review of the medical history is performed to determine the presence of atherosclerotic disease, which equates high risk for CHD events, such as clinical CHD, symptomatic coronary artery disease (CAD), peripheral artery disease, abdominal aortic aneurysm, and diabetes (“ATP Guidelines,” 2004). Lastly, evidence of major risk factors such as cigarette smoking, hypertension (BP > 140/90 mmHg or use of antihypertensive medication), family history of premature CHD (male first degree relative < 55 years; female first degree relative < 65 years), and age (men > 45 years; women > 55 years) is determined (“ATP Guidelines,” 2004). If two or more risk factors are present without CHD or CHD risk equivalent, completion of the Framingham table (see Appendix B), a risk assessment tool used to calculate the ten-year risk of coronary events is warranted (“ATP Guidelines,” 2004). The statistical results of the Framingham scoring system assist in the determination of the most appropriate treatment regimen (“ATP Guidelines,” 2004). Nonpharmacological Treatment ATP III guidelines recommend that the initial treatment for hyperlipidemia be nonpharmacological in nature and focused upon therapeutic lifestyle changes (Kelly, 2010). According to ATP III guidelines, the establishment of LDL goal for therapy, the need for therapeutic lifestyle changes, and drug consideration are all necessary to determine an 6 HYPERLIDIPEMIA individual’s risk category. Once risk category is determined, the clinician and patient can decide whether lifestyle modification can be attempted by itself or in conjunction with pharmacological treatment (2004). Research suggests that addressing modifiable risk factors such as diet, exercise and smoking can have a positive effect on total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, as well as triglycerides, which decreases the risk of CHD (Bright et al., 2012; Cochrane et al., 2012; Fritsch, Montpellier & Kussman; Kelly, 2010). There is a great deal of evidence that suggests that the use of formal programs to educate and coach individuals with hyperlipidemia on lifestyle choices can be beneficial (Bright et al., 2012; Fritsch et al., 2009; Tressler et al., 2013). Many employers offer programs in the workplace to promote optimal health amongst their employees. Course curriculum varies from program to program; however, all of them stress the importance of following a diet low in saturated fats, smoking cessation, and participating in 30 minutes of aerobic exercise on a daily basis (Bright et al., 2012; Fritsch et al., 2009; Gepner et al., 2011; Rosenson, 2013; Tressler et al., 2013). Pharmacological Treatment In cases where individuals have an increased risk for CHD or have been unsuccessful at therapeutic lifestyle changes, pharmacological treatment is often indicated. According to Reindl, Wright & Wargo (2010) 3-Hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzymes A (HMG-CoA) reductase inhibitors (statins) are the most effective agents at reducing LDL-C levels, which decreases the occurrence of atherosclerotic events as well as cardiovascular morbidity and mortality (p. 1459). For this reason statins are currently the most commonly used class of medication for the treatment of hyperlipidemia (Zhang et al., 2013). Additional classes of medications used to treat HYPERLIDIPEMIA 7 hyperlipidemia include bile acid sequestrants, nicotinic acids and fibric acids (Zhang et al., 2013). Adherence Despite the fact that research suggests statins are the most effective medication class for the reduction of LDL-C levels, lack of adherence and underutilization are common problems associated with their use (Gadkari & McHorney, 2012; Reindl, Wright & Wargo, 2010; Wiegand, McCombs & Wang, 2012; Zhang et al., 2013). In a study conducted by Wiegand, McCombs, & Wang, 65% of the study participants were noted to be noncompliant with the prescribed treatment (2012). Predictors of nonadherence included individuals with the presence of poly pharmacy, age 45-55 years, a previous diagnosis of Diabetes and male gender (Wiegand et al., 2012). side effects. Although highly effective, statins can cause unpleasant adverse effects such as myalgia, hepatotoxicity, gastrointestinal disturbances, and headaches, which can ultimately lead to lack of adherence (Reindl, Wright & Wargo, 2010). In a retrospective cohort study an indepth review of reasons for the discontinuation of statins were investigated (Zhang et al., 2013). The results of the study suggested that adverse reactions to statins were the leading cause of temporary discontinuation, yet most patients who were restarted on the same statin were still able to tolerate it 12 months after the initial adverse event (Zhang et al., 2013). In addition to restarting the same statin, research indicates that changing to another statin or alternate day dosing are viable options to consider for patients who experience adverse effects (Reindl, Wright & Wargo, 2010). HYPERLIDIPEMIA 8 Race Current research suggests that lack of medical treatment adherence in minorities is multifactorial in nature (Ratanawongsa, Zikmund-Fisher, Couper, Van Hoewyk & Powe, 2010). African Americans and Hispanics have noticeably higher LDL and total cholesterol levels when compared to Caucasians, which predisposes them to a higher risk of mortality and morbidity (Willson, Neumiller, Sclar, Robison & Skaer, 2010). In spite of this increased risk, research indicates that African Americans and Hispanics are less likely to be knowledgeable about having high cholesterol, less likely to undergo regular cholesterol screening, as well as less likely to adhere to a medication regimen to reduce their lipid levels (Ratanawongsa et al., 2010). Literature has also identified that the Asian population has a significant predisposition to heart disease ("South asians and," 2013). Asians tend to have elevated triglyceride levels, low HDL and in many cases normal to very mildly elevated LDL levels ("South asians and," 2013). Hyperlipidemia can be difficult to treat in Asians because they may not meet the target goal for treatment of hyperlipidemia when in essence the medication prescribed may be too low (Chan et al., 2012). The literature indicates that research is lacking among the Asian populations in regards to the effectiveness of treatment (Chan et al., 2012). Ethnicity According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death among ethnic minorities such as African Americans, Hispanics and Whites in the United States today (2014). In addition, heart disease is currently the second leading cause of death amongst Alaskan natives, Pacific Islanders, and American Indians (cdc.gov, 2014). Research suggests that when compared to whites, ethnic minorities tend to be less informed 9 HYPERLIDIPEMIA about hyperlipidemia as well as less involved with the decision making process for treatment (Ratanawongsa, 2010). Socioeconomic Status Research indicates that African Americans and Hispanics tend to have lower incomes as well as an increased incidence of lack of health insurance (Zikmund-Fisher, et al., 2010). Thus, this population is often less likely to be evaluated by a primary care physician on a regular basis, putting them at a higher risk for the development of hyperlipidemia (Mosca, Bhuachalla & Kenny, 2013; Zikmund-Fisher, et al., 2010). Individuals who have limited financial resources tend to eat items higher in saturated fats because they are typically less expensive. Unfortunately, this increases their risk for the development of high cholesterol levels and the development of CHD (Leung et al., 2012). Literature Similarities There were several significant similarities noted in the literature review of hyperlipidemia. One of the most significant is the widespread use of the ATP III guidelines to treat hyperlipidemia (Cochrane et al., 2012; Eaton et al., 2011; Fritsch, Montpellier & Kussman, 2009; Tressler et al., 2013). Although the ATP III guidelines are from 2004, and are due to be updated in the very near future, they are still considered a pertinent resource for clinicians. Another similarity noted in the review of research was the overwhelming belief that therapeutic lifestyle modification is the key to the treatment and prevention of hyperlipidemia (Cochrane et al., 2012; Eaton., 2011; Fritsch, Montpellier & Kussman, 2009). Lastly, there is consensus that low income, limited access to healthcare, lack of quality care, and nonadherence to medication puts African American and Hispanic populations at greater risk for development of hyperlipidemia (Ratanawongsa et al., 2010; Zikmund-Fisher, et al., 2010). 10 HYPERLIDIPEMIA Literature Differences Although there were many similarities in the review of the literature there were also many differences noted as well. A variety of different reasons regarding lack of adherence to medication treatment was noted. These included adverse effects to statin therapy, medication affordability, perceived need for medication, forgetfulness, as well as carelessness (Gadkari & McHorney, 2012; Reindl et al., 2010; Roth et al., 2010; Zhang et al., 2013). There were also differing views on how to treat hyperlipidemia in the Asian population (Chan et al., 2012; Palo Alto Medical Foundation, 2014). Finally, there were differing views on whether black and Hispanic populations preferred to have health care providers dictate their treatment regimen or whether they were even likely to seek a health care provider for the detection of hyperlipidemia (Zikmund-Fisher, et al., 2010). Gaps in Literature There are gaps in the literature regarding not only how to increase the number of people being treated for hyperlipidemia but also how to increase the number of people who have their LDL levels under control. Thus, additional studies must be performed to identify solutions to these potentially life threatening issues. Furthermore, there are only limited studies regarding the proper treatment of hyperlipidemia in the Asian population. In order to better care for this population, additional studies must be performed. Lastly, further research regarding how to increase medication adherence is warranted. Final Thoughts Despite efforts to provide early screening and treatment, hyperlipidemia remains a major health issue that often goes unrecognized and untreated. Reasons for this include limited income, lack of access to health care, denial, nonadherence to medication regimen, and lack of HYPERLIDIPEMIA knowledge regarding the disease process as well as the increased risk of developing CHD. The evidence suggests that it is essential that patients receive regular screening, are provided with education regarding the disease and how to reduce their risk factors, as well as proper medical treatment if lifestyle modification fails to correct the issue. 11 12 HYPERLIDIPEMIA References Allcock, D., Gardner, M., & Sowers, J. (2009). Relation between childhood obesity and adult cardiovascular risk. International Journal Of Endocrinology, 1-4. Bertoni, A., Ensley, D., & Goff, D. (2012). 30,000 fewer heart attacks and strokes in North Carolina: a challenge to prioritize prevention. North Carolina Medical Journal, 73(6), 449-456. Bright, D. R., Kroustos, K. R., Thompson, R. E., Swanson, S. C., Terrell, S. L., & DiPietro, N. A. (2011). Preliminary results from a multidisciplinary university-based disease state management program focused on hypertension, hyperlipidemia, and diabetes. Journal Of Pharmacy Practice, 25(2), 130-135. doi:10.1177/0897190011420725 Chan, R. H., Chan, P. H., Chan, K. K., Lam, S. C., Hai , J. J., Wong, M. K., … Lee, S. W. (2012). The CHEPUS Pan-Asian survey: high low-density lipoprotein cholesterol goal attainment rate among hypercholesterolaemic patients undergoing lipid-lowering treatment in a Hong Kong regional centre. Hong Kong Medical Journal, 18(5), 395-406. Cochrane, T., Davey, R., Iqbal, Z., Gidlow, C., Kumar, J., Chambers, R., & Mawby, Y. (2012). NHS health checks through general practice: Randomized trial of population cardiovascular risk reduction. BMC Public Health, 12(944), 1-11. doi: 10.1186/14712458-12-944 Ewang-Emukowhate, M., & Wierzbicki, A. (2013). Lipid-lowering agents. Journal Of Cardiovascular Pharmacology And Therapeutics, 18(5), 401-411. doi:10.1177/1074248413492906 HYPERLIDIPEMIA 13 Fritsch, M., Montpellier, J., & Kussman, C. (2009). Worksite wellness: A cholesterol awareness program. . Official Journal Of The American Association Of Occupational Health Nurses, 57(2), 69-76. Gadkari, A., & McHorney, C. (2012). Unintentional non-adherence to chronic prescription medications: How unintentional is it really? BMC Health Services Research, 12(98), 112. doi: 10.1186/1472-6963-12-98 Gepner, A., Piper, M., Johnson, H., Fiore, M., Baker, T., & Stein, J. (2011). Effects of smoking and smoking cessation on lipids and lipoproteins: Outcomes from a randomized clinical trial. American Heart Journal, 161(1), 145-151. Heart disease facts. (2013, August 8). Retrieved from www.cdc.gov Kelly, R. (2010). Diet and exercise management of hyperlipidemia. American Family Physician, 81(9), 1097-1102. Last, A., Ference, J., & Falleroni, J. (2011). Pharmacologic treatment of hyperlipidemia. American Family Physician, 84(5), 551-558. Leung, C. W., Ding, E. L., Catalano, P. J., Villamor, E., Rimm, E. B., & Willet, W. C. (2012). Dietary intake and dietary quality of low-income adults in the supplemental nutrition assistance program. American Journal Clinical Nutrition, 1-12.doi: 10.3945/ajcn.112.040014 Mosca, I., Bhuachalla, B., & Kenny, R. (2013). Explaining significant differences in subjective and objective measures of cardiovascular health: Evidence for the socioeconomic gradient in a population-based study. BMC Cardiovascular Disorders, 13(64), doi: 10.1186/1471-2261-13-64 HYPERLIDIPEMIA 14 Prevalence of cholesterol screening and high blood cholesterol among adults-United States, 2005, 2007, and 2009. (2012). Morbidity And Mortality Weekly Report, 61(35) 697-702. Reindl, E. K., Wright, B. M., & Wargo, K. A. (2010). Alternate-day statin therapy for the treatment of hyperlipidemia. The Annals Of Pharmacotherapy, 44, 1459-1470. Rosenson, R. S. (2013). High cholesterol treatment options. Retrieved from www.uptodate.com South asians and cholesterol. (2013). Retrieved from www.pamf.org Third report of the expert panel on detection, evaluation, and treatment of high blood cholesterol in adults (adult treatment panel iii). (2004). Retrieved from www.nhlbi.nih.gov Tressler, M. C., Greer, N., Rector, T. S., Ishani, A., & Ercan-Fang, N. (2013). Factors associated with treatment success in veterans with diabetes and hyperlipidemia. The Diabetes Educator, 39(5), 664-670. doi: 10.1177/0145721713492568 Vijan, S. (2013, November 14). Screening for lipid disorders. Retrieved from www.uptodate.com Vital Signs: Prevalence, treatment and control of high levels of low-density lipoprotein cholesterol-United States, 1999-2002 and 2005-2008. (2011). Morbidity And Mortality Weekly Report, 60(4) 109-114. Wiegand, P., McCombs, J., & Wang, J. (2012). Factors of hyperlipidemia medication adherence in a nationwide health plan. American Journal Of Managed Care, 18(4), 193-199. Willson, M., Neumiller, J., Sclar, D., Robison, L., & Skaer, T. (2010). Ethnicity/race, use of pharmacotherapy, scope of physician-ordered cholesterol screening, and provision of diet/nutrition or exercise counseling during U.S. office-based visits by patients with hyperlipidemia. American Journal Of Cardiovascular Drugs, 10(2), 105-108. HYPERLIDIPEMIA 15 Zhang, H., Plutzky, J., Skentzos, S., Morrison, F., Mar, P., Shubina, M., & Turchin, A. (2013). Discontinuation of statins in routine care settings: A cohort study. Annals Of Internal Medicine, 158(7), 526-534. doi: 10.7326/0003-4819-158-7-201304020-00004 Zikmund-Fisher, B., Couper, M., Singer, E., Levin, C., Fowler, F., Ziniel, S., Ubel, P., & Fagerlin, A. (2010). The decisions study: A nationwide survey of United States adults regarding 9 common medical decisions. Medical Decision Making, 30(5), 20S-34S. doi: 10.1177/0272989X09353792 16 HYPERLIDIPEMIA Appendix A HYPERLIDIPEMIA 17 HYPERLIDIPEMIA 18 HYPERLIDIPEMIA 19 HYPERLIDIPEMIA 20 21 HYPERLIDIPEMIA Appendix B HYPERLIPIDEMIA 16 Appendix C Summary of Findings from Literature Review Studies Bright et al. (2012) Focus Evaluate the effectiveness of multidisciplinary disease state management pilot program Subjects N=20 Population Adult employees of private self-insured university Chan et al. (2012) N=561 Adults currently being treated for hyperlipidemia Assess the Cochrane et al. value of (2012) tailored lifestyle support, including motivational interview with ongoing support N=601 Adults with estimated CVD risk of > 20% Age 18 years of age or older Method Retrospective review Findings Improved clinical outcomes after three months. 18 years of age or older 18 years of age or older Cross sectional observational study Participants were able to achieve high attainment rate of LDL goal despite major cardiovascular risk factors. Retrospective review of randomized trial Average population CVD risk decreased from 32.9% to 29.4% in NHS Health Check only group. Participants believed participation in program was beneficial. CVD risk decreased from 31.9% to 29.2% in the NHS Health Check plus additional lifestyle support group. Prevalence of HTN, high cholesterol and smoking significantly reduced in both groups (p<0.01). 17 HYPERLIDIPEMIA Eaton et al. (2011) Fritsch, Montpellier, & Kussman (2009) Determine N=4,105 whether intervention based on patient activation and physician design support tool more effective than usual care for improving adherence to NCEP guidelines Adult patients from 30 primary care practices in Southern New England Determine impact of education and coaching on lifestyle choices and lipid values among employees w/ Hyperlipidemia Employees with diagnosis of hyperlipidemia N=139 18 years of age or older Randomized control trial Both randomized practice groups improved screening (89%) screened. 74% of patients in both groups were at their LDL and non-HDL cholesterol goals. No statistically significant difference between practice groups in screening or percentage of patients who achieved LDL and non-HDL goals. 18 years of age or older Retrospective Review Physicians who made high use of decision support tools were more likely to have patients at LDL cholesterol goals than low use or no use physicians. Participants had an overall reduction of 5.2% in total cholesterol. No significant change in HDL levels. Lipid based interventions at worksite can elicit positive changes in lifestyle and improved lipid levels. 18 HYPERLIDIPEMIA Gadharki & McHorney (2012) Mosca, Bhuachalla & Kenny (2013) N=24,017 Study prevalence and predictors of unintentional medication non-adherence Determine the N=4,179 extent to which socioeconomic health gradient differs in subjective and objective reports of hyperlipidemia and/or hypertension Adults with asthma, hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia or osteoporosis on chronic prescription meds 40 years of age or older Cross sectional survey Unintentional non-adherence does not appear to be random and is predicted by beliefs, chronic disease, and sociodemographics. Adults residing in Ireland with diagnosis of hyperlipidemia and/or hypertension 50 years of age or older Retrospective data analysis Higher education and greater wealth were associated with higher levels of HDL cholesterol. Association between socioeconomic status and objectively measured hypercholesterolemia and LDL cholesterol were not significant. Clear discrepancies in prevalence rates and gradients by socioeconomic status were found between subjective and objective reports of both disorders. 19 HYPERLIDIPEMIA Ratanawongsa et al. (2010) Investigate N=738 whether patient race/ethnicity is associated with experiences discussing cardiovascular risk reduction therapy with health care providers Reindl, Wright Evaluate the N=694 & Wargo safety, efficacy (2010) and cost of alternate-day statin therapy in the treatment of hyperlipidemia English speaking U.S. adults Age 40 years of age or older Retrospective cross sectional survey Minorities had lower knowledge scores than whites for hyperlipidemia. Minorities were more likely than whites to report that the health care provider made the final decision for treatment. Minorities considering hyperlipidemia therapy may be less informed about and less involved in the final decision making process. Adults currently taking Age 18 statins on an alternate years of age or older Data analysis of 17 trials involving alternate-day statin dosing Alternate day statin therapy may decrease cost and therapy limiting adverse reactions while potentially increasing regimen adherence and positively affecting the lipid panel. 20 HYPERLIDIPEMIA Roth et al. (2010) Tressler et al. (2013) Willson et al. (2010) Evaluate N= 474 efficacy and safety of fixed dose combinations of rosuvastatin and fenofibric acid compared with Simvastatin in patients with high levels of LDL and Triglycerides Adults with LDL-C levels > 160 mg/dL and < 240 mg/dL and TG > 150 mg/dL and < 400 mg/dL Identify factors related to achieving a LDL<100 mg/dL Examine the extent of racial/ethnic disparities in treatment of hyperlipidemia Veterans with known DM and one additional risk factor such as HTN, elevated Hgb A1C, or elevated LDL. Patients who visited office for hyperlipidemia. N= 556 N= 26,624,035 18 years of age or older Randomized double blind study Patients with high LDL-C and TG levels tolerated combination treatment with rosuvastatin/fenofibric acid well. Each of the rosuvastatin/fenofibric acid doses produced greater reductions in LDL-C and improvements in other parameters, compared with Simvastatin 40 mg. 18 years of age or older 20 years of age or older Data analysis from randomized control trial Patients who reached goal LDL had higher rates of pre-existing CAD, CVA< CHF, and Statin use. Retrospective data analysis Use of pharmacotherapy for hyperlipidemia varied by ethnicity and race. Disparity noted in cholesterol screening, diet, nutrition, exercise counseling by ethnicity and race. 21 HYPERLIDIPEMIA ZikmundFisher et al. (2010) Zhang et al. (2013) Identify N= 3010 decision prevalence and decision making process re: hyperlipidemia as well as a variety of other medical conditions. Investigate the N=107,835 reasons for statin discontinuatio n and the role of statinrelated events or symptoms believe to have been caused by statins in routine care settings U.S. adults in households with telephones 40 years of age and older Telephone interview survey 82.2% of participants reported making at least one medical decision in last 2 years. Participants made more medical decisions if they had a PCP or were in poorer health. Participants made less medical decisions if they had lower education, were male, or under the age of 50. Adults who received a statin prescription 18 years of age or older Retrospective cohort study Statin related events are commonly reported and often lead to statin discontinuation. Most patients who are rechallenged can tolerate satins long term. Findings suggest that statins may have other causes, are tolerable, or may be specific to individual statins rather than the entire drug class.