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Article: CHOLESTEROL SCREENING NOT ALWAYS EFFECTIVE
- Article from:
- The Washington Post
- Article date:
- November 14, 1995
- Author:
CopyrightThis material is published under license from the Washington Post. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Washington Post. (Hide copyright information)
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A new study cautions doctors about overestimating the impact of
cholesterol screening in getting high-risk patients to lower their
cholesterol levels.
The study, evaluating a voluntary screening program including more
than 1,000 patients in the Boston area, found some benefit for
patients under 60, but "no overall benefit" for those over 60.
Patients in the screening program had their cholesterol checked by
a blood test at one of three sites. About 17 months later, they were
offered a follow-up cholesterol test and were asked about what kind
of medical care, counseling and lifestyle changes they had undergone
in the meantime.
High-risk patients in the study appeared to have lowered their ...