Q: I have problem of high cholesterol and abnormal lipids. It was detected 10 years back and I immediately started medication. With drugs the lipid level is under control but shows constant variation in HDL/LDL ratio and triglyceride levels. Sometimes HDL/LDL levels are normal but triglycerides shoot up or it is vice versa. My age is 39 and recently I have developed raised BP also. I do regular exercise of 2/3 km brisk walk every day and get my test done half yearly. I do not have any heart problem so far but I am worried due to a strong family history. I would like to know what risk factor I am carrying and what extra care I need to take? I do not smoke and drink occasional.

A:The most important thing for you is to keep LDL cholesterol below 100 mgs and triglycerides below 150 mgs. The BP should be kept below 140/80 mm Hg. Drug treatment by statin group of drugs in appropriate dose is very useful in reducing the chance of an adverse event significantly. Continue exercises and low fat diet, maintain a good weight control. If you can do all this you should put worries off.