Management of dyslipidemia in
the elderly population
Freij A. Gobal and Jawahar L. Mehta
Abstract: The elderly population is increasing worldwide. Despite a major decrease in
deaths from coronary heart disease (CHD), this malady remains the major cause of death
in elderly men and women. In this paper, we review the role of dyslipidemia as a major
known risk factor in the pathogenesis of CHD, age-related changes in lipoprotein metabolism,
and differences in changes in lipids that occur in men and women during aging. Next we
provide an overview of the available studies and recommendations from ATP III. Finally, we
comment on the screening and management, cost and side effects of therapy as it applies to an
aging population.