High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)

What is High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)?

High cholesterol, or hyperlipidemia, occurs when levels of LDL (bad cholesterol), total cholesterol, or triglycerides are elevated in the blood. Cholesterol is a waxy substance needed for building cells, but excess amounts deposit in artery walls forming plaques that narrow and harden the arteries (atherosclerosis). The UAE has one of the highest rates of hyperlipidemia in the region, driven by dietary habits, sedentary lifestyles, and genetic predisposition. A lipid profile blood test is the standard method for diagnosis.

Symptoms

• ●Usually no symptoms until complications develop
• ●Yellowish deposits around the eyes (xanthelasma)
• ●Chest pain (if arteries are significantly blocked)
• ●Fatty bumps on tendons (xanthomas)
• ●Numbness or pain in extremities

What Causes High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)?

High cholesterol can result from a diet high in saturated and trans fats, physical inactivity, obesity, and genetic factors. Familial hypercholesterolemia is an inherited condition that causes very high LDL levels from birth. Conditions like diabetes, hypothyroidism, and kidney disease can also contribute to elevated cholesterol.

Risk Factors

• ⚠Diet high in saturated and trans fats
• ⚠Sedentary lifestyle and obesity
• ⚠Family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
• ⚠Diabetes and metabolic syndrome
• ⚠Smoking
• ⚠Age (cholesterol rises with age)

How to Prevent High Cholesterol (Hyperlipidemia)

A heart-healthy diet rich in fiber, fruits, vegetables, and omega-3 fatty acids combined with regular exercise can lower cholesterol. Limiting saturated fats, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight are also critical prevention strategies.

When to Get Tested

All adults aged 20 and above should have a lipid profile at least every 5 years. Those with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or family history should be tested more frequently.

References & Sources

• [1]
  Mayo Clinic — High CholesterolAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [2]
  CDC — CholesterolAccessed: 2026-02-24
• [3]
  NHS — High CholesterolAccessed: 2026-02-24