Publisher's Synopsis
Lipoprotein disorders are among the most common metabolic derangements encountered in industrialised countries. Figures for the United States of America, for example, reveal that more than half of the adult population have too high plasma cholesterol levels. It is not surprising that ischaemic heart disease remains the commonest cause of death in the western world. This volume focuses on the origin of the problem by exploring the factors which govern the structure and metabolism of human plasma lipoproteins and those which regulate lipoprotein interaction with the developing atherosclerotic lesion.;Secondly, recent advances in the pharmaceutical industry have led to the development of powerful and effective new lipid lowering drugs. The practising physician needs to know when to use these agents and what to expect of them. This topic is examined in some detail to provide a basis for rational lipid lowering pharmacotherapy if dietary intervention fails. The implementation of effective intervention programs offers the prospect of reducing the impact of heart disease and improving the quality and expectation of life in the community.
