EVIDENCE-BASED LDL-C REDUCTION STRATEGIES: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW OF LIFESTYLE AND PHARMACOLOGIC INTERVENTIONS FOR HYPERCHOLESTEROLEMIA IN ADULTS

Gabion; Shannen Ericka Sedayon; Kent Jerome Verula; Mandrake Estorico Gecelene

doi:10.5281/zenodo.21439567

Abstract

Hypercholesterolemia is a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease, with elevated low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) contributing to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular complications. This systematic review aims to evaluate evidence-based lifestyle and pharmacologic interventions for reducing LDL-C levels among adults with hypercholesterolemia. A systematic review was conducted involving ten (10) studies that examined various LDL-C reduction strategies, including lifestyle interventions such as plant sterol supplementation and dietary modification, as well as pharmacologic therapies including statins, ezetimibe, bempedoic acid, PCSK9 inhibitors, and evinacumab. Studies were analyzed based on patient characteristics, treatment approaches, and LDL-C outcomes. Findings revealed that pharmacologic interventions, particularly combination therapies involving statins, ezetimibe, and bempedoic acid, demonstrated significant LDL-C reductions. PCSK9 inhibitors and evinacumab also showed effectiveness, especially among patients with severe or familial hypercholesterolemia. Lifestyle interventions provided additional benefits in improving lipid profiles and supporting long-term cholesterol management.

Keywords

LDL-C reduction; Hypercholesterolemia; Lipid-lowering therapy; Statins; Ezetimibe; Bempedoic acid; PCSK9 inhibitors; Lifestyle intervention; Systematic review.

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