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Lab Corp is working to educate customers about cholesterol misconceptions through a new awareness campaign launched from their Burlington, North Carolina headquarters on Wednesday (February 11).
The healthcare diagnostics company is addressing several persistent myths about cholesterol through a newsletter sent to customers, emphasizing that not all cholesterol is harmful to the body. According to Lab Corp's educational materials, cholesterol is actually a crucial component needed for proper bodily functions, including absorbing nutrients, producing hormones, and forming protective layers around cell membranes.
"One of the most dangerous misconceptions about cholesterol is that you'll know if there's a problem," Lab Corp states in their materials. "In reality, high cholesterol typically has no noticeable symptoms until it leads to more serious problems."
The campaign specifically targets several widespread misconceptions, including the belief that only overweight people have high cholesterol. While weight can be a factor, Mayo Clinic notes that even young, thin individuals should monitor their cholesterol levels, as family history and other factors play significant roles.
Lab Corp also challenges the notion that diet and exercise alone determine cholesterol levels. While lifestyle modifications are important, genetic factors can significantly impact cholesterol regardless of healthy habits. According to Johns Hopkins Medicine, nearly one in four people with seemingly "desirable" cholesterol levels may actually need more aggressive treatment under newer calculation methods.
The company recommends cholesterol checks every four to six years for most healthy adults, though those with risk factors like heart disease, diabetes, or family history of high cholesterol may need more frequent testing.
With nearly 10 percent of Americans having high cholesterol, Lab Corp's educational initiative aims to improve public understanding of this common but often misunderstood health condition.