Surprising Link Discovered Between High 'Good Cholesterol' Levels and Increased Dementia Risk in Older Adults:

In a groundbreaking revelation, researchers have uncovered an unexpected connection between elevated levels of high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), commonly known as "good cholesterol," and a heightened risk of dementia in older individuals. This discovery challenges the prevailing belief that high HDL-C levels exclusively contribute to cardiovascular health.

The study, conducted as part of the Aspirin in Reducing Events in the Elderly (ASPREE) trial, involved cognitively healthy participants from Australia and the U.S. without prior cardiovascular diseases or severe chronic conditions. Regular health check-ups, including HDL-C level measurements and dementia assessments, were conducted on these individuals.

Results indicated that participants with very high levels of good cholesterol (exceeding 80 mg/dL) faced a 27% higher risk of developing dementia compared to those with moderate HDL-C levels. This association was particularly notable in individuals aged 75 and above, with the risk of dementia increasing almost linearly as HDL-C levels rose.

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Contrary to the conventional belief that higher HDL-C levels are universally advantageous, the study emphasises that while good cholesterol is beneficial in moderate amounts, excessively high levels may have detrimental effects, especially on cognitive health.

Published in The Lancet Regional Health – Western Pacific, these findings carry significant implications. They suggest that maintaining HDL-C levels within a specific range could be more beneficial, especially for older adults. Furthermore, the results underscore the necessity for more nuanced guidelines in cholesterol management, challenging the one-size-fits-all approach that has long been in place. As we reevaluate our understanding of cholesterol's role in health, these findings provide a crucial step towards personalised and targeted interventions for improved overall well-being in ageing populations.