Host: Darryl S. Chutka, M.D. [@ChutkaMD] Guest: Stephen Kopecky, M.D. [@DrSteveKopecky] Hyperlipidemia is extremely common in the U.S., and we have a variety of pharmacologic agents which are very effective in treating this condition and improving our patients’ lipid profile. Yet there are patients who have elevated lipids but may not meet the criteria for pharmacologic therapy and other patients who don’t tolerate the medications we commonly prescribe. What are the alternative treatments available for managing hyperlipidemia and how effective are they?  How do they compare with pharmacologic therapy? We’ll discuss these issues and more in this podcast with our guest, preventive cardiologist Stephen Kopecky, M.D., from the Mayo Clinic.  Connect with the Mayo Clinic’s School of Continuous Professional Development online at https://ce.mayo.edu/ or on Twitter @MayoMedEd. 

CardioNerds host Dr. Stephen Kopecky, a cardiovascular prevention expert, discussing risk assessment beyond standard calculators, optimizing cholesterol levels, and managing statin intolerance. They explore guidelines for LDL goals based on risk factors, addressing side effects, and future interventions for personalized cardiovascular prevention.

Diet's impact on cardiovascular disease and the problems with the standard American diet (SAD) are discussed. Recommendations for improving diet include adding healthy foods like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and fish. The effects of alcohol on cardiovascular health and the risks and benefits are also explored. The speakers promote a book on living a healthy lifestyle, emphasizing its practicality and relevance for different age groups.