Lipidology is the subspecialty of medicine applied to studying lipids-that is, fatty molecules such as cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipid-and how they are intertwined with disease and health matters, in particular with issues of heart conditions. Of course, lipids help with multiple biological functions involving cell membranes, energy production, and hormone synthesis among others. However, if there is an imbalance in lipid levels, there can be an excess level of LDL cholesterol or triglycerides, and it forms atherosclerosis. The first risk factor for heart attack, stroke, and peripheral artery disease is this disease.

Lipidology analyses genetic as well as lifestyle factors affecting lipid metabolism. For example, there is familial hypercholesterolemia with pathologically high levels of LDL cholesterol from early childhood, which substantially increases the risk for earlier than usual cardiovascular diseases; lipidology research also becomes interested in how factors of a lifestyle—diet, degree of physical activity, smoking—are associated with profiles. For example, dietary fats increase levels in different ways for cholesterol. Some will raise LDL cholesterol levels found with saturated and trans fats. Unsaturated fats even help lower triglycerides and support heart health with good omega-3 fatty acids.

The lipid-lowering therapies have rewritten the map. Within this group, the core therapy has been statins that reduce LDL cholesterol through inhibition of the enzyme HMG-CoA reductase. More recently, PCSK9 inhibitors also decreased LDL to an even lower level through their effect on the liver’s capacity to enhance its removal of LDL from the blood. Other therapies like fibrates and omega-3 are selectively prescribed when the levels of triglyceride increase.

Lipidology is more than just the management of lipid levels. It is preventing complications associated with lipid imbalances. Lipidology works to correct abnormal lipid profiles through individualized treatments, lifestyle interventions, and education of patients, which significantly contributes to the prevention and management of cardiovascular diseases in the long run.