Ker, James A.2011-04-052011-04-052010-11Ker, JA 2010, 'The treatment of cholesterol : issues, effects and targets', South African Family Practice, vol. 52, no. 6, pp. 523-524. [http;//www.safpj.co.za]1726-426X (online)1026-9177 (print)http://hdl.handle.net/2263/16212Statins are the most powerful cholesterol lowering drugs currently available. Statins inhibit 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-coenzyme A (HMG CoA) reductase, which leads to reduced cholesterol synthesis. In addition, low-density cholesterol receptors on the hepatocyte surface are upregulated, leading to increased clearance of cholesterol. The end result is a significant reduction in cholesterol levels, and a consequent significant reduction in mortality and cardiovascular events in the appropriate individual.en© SAAFPCholesterolHypercholesterolemiaTreatmentDrug therapyStatinsEffectivityLDL cholesterolTargetRiskPreventionElderlyTime factorsAtherosclerosisSafetyCholesterol -- TreatmentArticle