High Cholesterol Risks: People often think of cholesterol as a bad thing. Let's explain when it's good and when it starts to harm you. How to keep it in check.

Why does cholesterol increase?

How PCSK9 Inhibitors Lower Cholesterol: Cholesterol is a fatty substance present in our blood. People often think of it as harmful, but the truth is that it plays an essential role in the body. Cholesterol helps form the outer layer of cells and is also needed for the production of several important hormones and vitamin D. The body also uses it to produce bile acids, which help digest the fat in food. Problems begin when blood cholesterol levels become excessively high.

What are the disadvantages of increasing cholesterol levels?

When bad cholesterol accumulates in excess in the blood, it gradWhen bad cholesterol accumulates in excess in the blood, it gradually begins to adhere to the inner walls of blood vessels. Over time, it accumulates and forms a thick, sticky layer called plaque, a process known as atherosclerosis. As plaque builds up, blood vessels narrow, and blood flow is affected. In severe cases, it can lead to complete blockage or blood clots, which can lead to life-threatening conditions like a heart attack or stroke.holesterol-lowering medications. These medications aim to reduce harmful cholesterol in the blood and prevent plaque buildup in the bloodstream. The most commonly used medications include statins. In recent years, a new class of medications, PCSK9 inhibitors, has emerged, which are prescribed for people with very high cholesterol levels or who do not respond well to statins.

What did the research reveal?

Researchers at the University of South Australia in Australia recently conducted a study to understand how these drugs affect the body. The research found that both statins and PCSK9 inhibitors are highly effective in lowering cholesterol and helping to reduce the risk of heart disease.

However, the researchers also discovered some interesting findings. Some people taking statins showed slight changes in a part of the brain called the hippocampus. The hippocampus is associated with memory and learning. In some cases, this area was slightly larger, suggesting that statins may also affect the brain. However, more research is needed to fully understand this relationship.

May increase weight and body fat

The study also found that some people may experience increased weight and body fat after taking statins. Furthermore, some men also experienced slightly lower testosterone levels. Testosterone is an important hormone involved in energy, muscle strength, and mood, so changes in its levels cannot be ignored. Studies involving PCSK9 inhibitors also indicated some changes in lung function. However, scientists say it's unclear whether these drugs directly cause these changes, and further research is needed.