A 65-year-old patient, with symptoms of shortness of breathing, chest pain (angina pectoris) and weakness suspected for coronary heart disease (CHD) was requested for lipid profile laboratory investigations. The lipid profile results revealed elevated values of HDL-C, LDL-C, triglyceride and total cholesterol. Which lipid profile is the most risk factor for atherosclerosis? a. Elevated total cholesterol b. Elevated triglyceride c. Elevated HDL-C d. Elevated LDL-C
d. Elevated LDL-C
Elevated LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) is considered the most significant risk factor for atherosclerosis. LDL-C is often referred to as "bad cholesterol" because it is responsible for depositing cholesterol into the arterial walls, leading to the development of atherosclerotic plaques. These plaques can eventually cause narrowing and blockage of the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Managing and reducing LDL-C levels are crucial in the prevention and treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD).