High cholesterol isn’t something that only affects people in middle age: The Centers for Disease Control estimates that 7.5% of Americans between ages 20 and 39 have high total cholesterol (greater than 240 mg/dL). That’s why MedBen WellLiving recommends regular cholesterol tests for plan members as young as 20 years old.
When too much low-density lipoprotein (aka “bad” cholesterol) circulates in your blood, it can build up on the inside walls of your blood vessels and restrict blood flow to your heart and brain. Eventually, this could lead to a heart attack or stroke.
U.S. guidelines don’t call for Americans to be screened during young adulthood. But for people in their 20s and 30s with elevated cholesterol levels, early testing can enable their family doctor to help them control their cholesterol through simple lifestyle changes, rather than an ongoing drug regimen.
“If I have a 30-year-old with high cholesterol in my clinic, I am not waiting 10 years until they turn 40 and then use a calculator to calculate a neat little score for them,” said Dr. Muhammad Siyab Panhwar, an interventional cardiologist. “That’s silly. They need management now, not after 10 years of unchecked high cholesterol.”
Of course, a healthier body typically also costs less to maintain. From 2019 to 2023, MedBen WellLiving clients spent an average of 14.8% less on cholesterol-related claims than non-WellLiving clients.
Take the first step toward lower cholesterol for all your employees regardless of age by calling MedBen Marketing at 888-827-8683.