Greek Registry - Familial Hypercholesterolaemia

Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) \[heterozygous (heFH) or homozygous FH (hoFH)\] is a common genetic disorder, characterized by elevated plasma low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol concentration leading (if untreated) to cholesterol deposits in the corneas, eyelids and extensor tendons, rapidly progressing vascular disease, and aortic valve disease.

In contrast, timely recognition and effective treatment of FH can result in a significant improvement in clinical outcomes. The problem is that that majority of individuals with FH are unaware of their disease, particularly that the disease remains silent for many years. In most countries around the world \<5% of individuals with FH are identified . Until lately the prevalence of heFH was traditionally considered to be \ 1:500 individuals , although clinical and genetic studies suggest that heFH affects \ 1:200-250 individuals . Thus, the aim of the Hellenic College of Treatment of Atherosclerosis (HCAT) is to 1). Evaluate the prevalence of FH in Greece (FHG-Registry) and 2). To inform population of FH disease.

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Greece