HDL cholesterol — How do I raise my patients good cholesterol?

What are the new concepts about HDL? HDL is the smallest and densest of the lipoproteinsbecause of its high protein content. Proteins make up about 50% of its mass and apolipoprotein A-I (apoA-I) accounts for 70% of that protein component. There are several mechanisms by which HDL protects against atherosclerosis, including reverse cholesterol transport, anti oxidant effects,anti-inflammatory effects, anti-thrombotic effects, andmodification of endothelial function. HDL has been proven to be inversely related to stroke risk. HDL function rather than its absolute level may predict atherosclerotic disease better in some subsets of patients where the HDL functionsas perhaps pro inflammatory. This explains those patients who develop coronary artery disease and stroke despite very high HDL levels.