|
Cholestrol
What is it
Cholesterol is a white, powdery substance that is found in all animal
cells and in animal-based foods, not in plants. Not many people are aware
that cholesterol actually is, an essential nutrient necessary for many
body functions, like repairing cell membranes, manufacturing vitamin D
on the skin's surface and making of hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone
in the body. It is however harmful when it is present in excess and can
have dangerous consequences. It should be noted that although the body
acquires some cholesterol through diet, about two-thirds is manufactured
in the liver, its production stimulated by saturated fat. Saturated fats
are those found in animal products, meat and dairy.
Why is it done?
The association of heart disease and cholesterol has long been established.
Studies consistently report a higher risk for death from heart disease
with high (200 and over) total cholesterol levels. The higher the cholesterol
the greater the risk. So, for example, according to a 2000 study, men
with cholesterol levels over 240 mg/dL have a risk that is 2.15 to 3.63
of those whose cholesterol is below 200. Only 40% of people with high
cholesterol levels actually die of heart disease, however, and experts
cannot yet define which people are most at risk from high cholesterol
levels. On an encouraging note, however, mortality rates associated with
coronary artery disease have dropped by over one-half during the past
30 years. Some experts estimate that about 30% of the decline is due to
better cholesterol management. Every time a person's cholesterol level
drops by a point, the risk of heart disease drops by 2%.
When is it done?
After the age of 35, at least once a year.
How to Avail it?
One has to dial 6825000, 6825004, and 6825005 and take an appointment
for a suitable date for check-up. One may also fix up the appointment
through the internet (ehirc.com).
Before ... Precautions & prerequisites
- One is advised to fast for 12 hours before the tests.
- One should report on empty stomach (not even tea).
Water may be taken.
- One should not smoke for at least 2 hours before
the tests.
- One should also postpone any routine morning medication,
until our staff guides you to have it, after certain tests.
- During the course of the tests, breakfast is offered.
- One should always bring their previous medical records,
if any.
After
The tests are competed within a morning, and the detailed reports are
ready in 2 days. An appointment will be made for a doctor to discuss these
reports with the person who has undergone these tests. Alternatively,
arrangements can be made for the results and recommendations to be sent
to the person concerned.
|