Q. Etiologic factor of dyslipidemia?

The causative factors of dyslipidemia/hyperlipidemia may be environmental (dietary/ lifestyle), genetic or secondary to certain disease conditions or drugs. We have already studied these but let us briefly touch upon them.

1. Environmental factors: These include diets light in saturated fats, excessive calorie intake, alcohol intake and sedentary lifestyle. A change in diet and lifestyle can help to normalize elevated blood lipid levels.

2. Genetic defects: These lead to familial hyperlipidemia. In such cases, the lipid levels may be alarmingly high and risk of CHD very high. Myocardial infarction can occur within the first two decades of life. Dietary modifications along with drug therapy are beneficial.

3. Hyperlipidemia secondary to other conditions: The disorders that upset lipid metabolism include poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, kidney disease (nephrosis and end-stage renal disease), liver disease, hypothyroidism and use of drugs like oral contraceptives, thiazide diuretics, and corticosteroids could be a cause of the lipid imbalances.