HEALTH SECRETS: WHY LDL AND HDL CHECKS CAN SAVE YOUR LIFE!

Routine examination and monitoring of LDL and HDL levels is very important, because both have vital functions in the body's lipid metabolism. An imbalance in the levels of both can increase the risk of atherosclerosis, heart disease and stroke. Therefore, regular examinations are necessary to detect changes in the lipid profile and timely taking of preventive measures.

Cholesterol is often misunderstood as the only risk factor for heart disease, but the story behind cholesterol is much more complex. Among the various types of cholesterol, LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) and HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) have their own key roles, with different functions and health implications. Let us learn more about the role of both and the dangers associated with their imbalance in the body.

1. HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)

HDL is often referred to as "good" cholesterol. Its main role is to transport cholesterol from body tissues and arteries back to the liver, where it can be processed and excreted. HDL acts as a scavenger, removing excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and helping prevent plaque buildup in the arteries.

Figure 1. LDL and HDL in arteries

Where HDL has the function:

• Cholesterol Transport: HDL collects excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and tissues, then transports it back to the liver for processing and excretion.
• Anti-Inflammatory Properties: HDL has anti-inflammatory properties and helps reduce inflammation in the arteries, protecting against atherosclerosis.

When HDL levels are low it can cause:

• Heart Disease Risk: Low HDL levels are associated with an increased risk of heart disease, as HDL plays an important role in removing excess cholesterol from the bloodstream.
• Impaired Retrograde Cholesterol Transport: Low HDL levels can interfere with the retrograde cholesterol transport process, causing cholesterol to build up in the arteries.

2. LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)

LDL is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Its main function is to transport cholesterol from the liver to the rest of the body. Although cholesterol is important for vital functions such as cell membrane formation and hormone production, too much LDL can cause plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Where LDL itself has the following functions:

• Transports Cholesterol: LDL transports cholesterol from the liver to the rest of the body, where it is used for various cellular processes.
• Cell Membrane Formation: Cholesterol carried by LDL is important for the formation and maintenance of cell membranes.
• Hormone Production: Cholesterol from LDL is used as a precursor for the production of important hormones such as estrogen and testosterone.

Figure 2. LDL buildup on artery walls (atherosclerosis)

When LDL levels are high it can cause:

• Atherosclerosis: High LDL levels can cause plaque buildup in the arteries, narrowing the blood vessels and increasing the risk of atherosclerosis.
• Heart Disease: Atherosclerosis of the coronary arteries can lead to coronary heart disease, increasing the risk of heart attack and angina.
• Stroke: Rupture of atherosclerotic plaque can form blood clots that can block blood flow to the brain, causing a stroke.

Routine checking of LDL and HDL cholesterol levels using a chemistry analyzer is very important in holistic health management. With the results of this examination, doctors can obtain comprehensive information about the patient's cardiovascular health status, enabling early evaluation of the risk of heart disease and monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment given. In addition, the examination also provides an opportunity for patients to gain a deeper understanding of their heart health, and can take appropriate preventive steps. Thus, these routine check-ups are an integral part of holistic and sustainable health care.

Reference:

1. Nugraha, I. B. A., Gotera, W.,2023. Pengenalan Awam Mengetahui Dislipidemia dan Pemeriksaan Penunjangnya.
2. Harvard Medical School. 2019. 11 Foods That Lower Cholesterol
3. Alwi, Idrus, Dislipidemia dan Penyakit Kardiovaskular. PIP Interna. 2022.