Coronary Risk

Overview

The Coronary Risk marker gives us an insight into the likelihood of developing heart disease by comparing the balance between different types of cholesterol in your blood - specifically looking at lipid subfractions. These subfractions break cholesterol down into more detailed categories, allowing us to see how much “good” cholesterol (like HDL) you have compared to “bad” forms (like small dense LDL). Think of this marker as your heart's report card. If the balance tips too far toward the bad types, the risk of fatty build-up in the arteries (which can lead to heart attacks or strokes) goes up. On the other hand, a good ratio means your heart is likely well protected. This measure doesn’t just look at your total cholestero - it drills down into the quality of each type to give a clearer picture of cardiovascular health.

Testing Levels:

• High ( ) - A higher coronary risk ratio suggests a greater chance of developing cardiovascular disease. It means the amount of harmful cholesterol subfractions is outweighing the protective ones. This imbalance increases the chances of cholesterol sticking to artery walls, causing blockages. It’s like your heart’s pipes are starting to clog, and the risk of heart-related issues like heart attacks is rising. This may call for changes in diet, lifestyle, and possibly medication.
  
  
• Mid - If your coronary risk falls within the reference range, it's a positive sign. It suggests a healthy balance between your protective and harmful lipid particles. Your heart and blood vessels are likely in good condition, with less risk of cholesterol build-up. This means your lifestyle, diet, or any treatments you’re following are working well to keep your heart healthy.
  
  
• Low ( ) - A lower-than-expected coronary risk is excellent. It means you likely have high levels of protective HDL and low levels of harmful LDL subfractions. This balance strongly protects your heart from disease. It shows your blood is transporting cholesterol efficiently, keeping your artery walls clear and healthy.

Why We Test Coronary Risk

Testing your Coronary Risk using lipid subfractions provides a deeper understanding of your heart health than a standard cholesterol test. It uncovers hidden risk factors - like small dense LDL particles - that might go unnoticed in traditional tests. This insight helps prevent future heart disease and allows you to make lifestyle changes before major issues arise. It’s especially helpful for people with a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, or other cardiovascular risk factors.

What Affects It

Several lifestyle and health factors can shift your coronary risk. A diet high in saturated or trans fats can raise bad cholesterol, while regular exercise and a balanced diet can boost good cholesterol. Smoking, alcohol, being overweight, stress, and conditions like diabetes or hypothyroidism also influence your cholesterol levels. Genetics can play a role too - some people naturally produce more small dense LDL, which is more likely to contribute to artery plaque.

How to Improve

If your Coronary Risk is high or creeping up, focus on heart-healthy habits: eat more whole grains, fruits, and vegetables, cut back on sugar and processed fats, and get moving with regular exercise. Managing stress, quitting smoking, and reducing alcohol also make a big difference. If it’s low or within range, keep up your routine! A Mediterranean-style diet, daily walks, and regular health check-ups will help maintain your heart's strong defence system. Medication may be needed in some cases if lifestyle changes alone don’t work - always speak with your healthcare provider for guidance.

Common Name: Coronary Risk