Hyperlipoproteinemia epidemiology and demographics

Lipoprotein Disorders Microchapters
Patient Information
Overview
Causes
Classification Hyperlipoproteinemia Hypolipoproteinemia
Treatment

Editor-In-Chief: C. Michael Gibson, M.S., M.D. [1]; Associate Editor(s)-in-Chief: Hardik Patel, M.D.

Overview

Hyperlipidemia is a common health problem that tends to more often affect the elderly population in developed countries. It is a major cause of disease burden globally as a risk factor for cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases.

Epidemiology and Demographics

Prevalence

Worldwide, the prevalence of hyperlipidemia is about 39,000 per 100,000 patients. In developed countries, the prevalence of hyperlipidemia is about 51,000 per 100,000 patients. In developing countries, the prevalence of hyperlipidemia is about 26,000 per 100,000 patients.

Age

The prevalence of hyperlipidemia increases with age. It may be present in children and young adults but is seen more frequently in later life.

Gender

The prevalence of hyperlipidemia among men is about 37,000 per 100,000, and among women is about 40,000 per 100,000. Thus gender is not much associated with an increased risk of hyperlipidemia. However, hyperlipidemia is more common in men younger than 55 years and in women older than 55 years.

Developed Countries

People in the developed countries have a higher prevalance of hyperlipidemia. The prevalence also increases noticeably according to the income level of the country. In high-income countries, over 50% of adults have raised total cholesterol; more than double the level of the low-income countries.

Developing Countries

In the past, the incidence and prevalence of hyperlipidemia were low in developing countries in comparison to developed countries. But with the westernization of developing regions in Middle East, India, and Central and South America, the incidence of hyperlipidemia is increasing.