David Fitchett, MD FRCP(C), St Michael’s Hospital, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON.

As a response to recent clinical trials of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) lowering, the Adult Treatment Panel III (ATP III) has proposed new thresholds and targets for treatment. In addition, the population that is considered to benefit from LDL lowering has been extended to include the diabetic and the older patient. This article reviews the clinical trial evidence, and the new recommendations, and provides commentary with special reference to management of the older person.

Key words: cardiovascular disease, LDL cholesterol, statin therapy, older patients, diabetes.