HDL-cholesterol: perfection is the enemy of good?

Abstract

An inverse relationship between the plasma concentration of high-density lipoprotein (HDL)-cholesterol and the risk of having a cardiovascular event has been shown in several epidemiologic studies. It is likely that this relationship is causal because HDL has several intrinsic properties that can potentially reverse atherosclerosis. However, this has not been conclusively shown in humans, and trying to achieve perfection with pharmacotherapy is possibly the enemy of good (ie, a healthy lifestyle). Patients with low HDL should be advised to change their lifestyle, including smoking cessation, weight reduction, and regular exercise.