Vascular Health Sciences CEO: Little Surprise That HDL-Raising Cholesterol Drug Doesn't Reduce Heart Attack Risk - kcentv.com - KCEN HD - Waco, Temple, and Killeen

This article was originally distributed via PRWeb. PRWeb, WorldNow and this Site make no warranties or representations in connection therewith.

SOURCE: Vascular Health Sciences

A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine reports that dalcetrapib is effective at raising “good cholesterol,” yet not effective at reducing cardiovascular disease risk.

Salt Lake City, UT (PRWEB) December 07, 2012

The experimental drug dalcetrapib does not reduce the risk of heart attack, despite its effectiveness at raising high-density lipoprotein (HLD), also called “good cholesterol,” according to a new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine.

This report comes after a number of recent studies – including one published by the New York Times – continue to challenge the theory that by raising HDL, drugs can effectively lower heart attack risk. The theory is the result of strong correlation between levels of HDL in the bloodstream and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

Vascular Health Sciences Co-Founder and CEO Bob Long is not surprised by the findings because of research surrounding the endothelial glycocalyx.

“The result of this and other recent studies shouldn’t be surprising,” said Long. “When we consider the impact of cholesterol on the endothelial glycocalyx, we realize that our focus should be on the artery wall and its health.”

The endothelial glycocalyx is a delicate gel-like substance that lines the entire vascular system. When healthy, the glycocalyx acts as a protective barrier against damaging bloodborne particles.

Heredity and aging, as well as lifestyle choices including poor diet, lack of exercise and smoking all have an effect on the glycocalyx, leaving it less capable of protecting the artery walls. When harmful substances begin to penetrate the endothelium, the arteries are at risk.

For more information on the endothelial glycocalyx and its impact on overall artery health and the cardiovascular system, visit ArteryHealth.org.

About Vascular Health Sciences
Founded in 2010, Vascular Health Sciences explores technologies, develops products and disseminates information to increase awareness and promote the proper care of the endothelial glycocalyx. Vascular Health Sciences is committed to increasing awareness of the glycocalyx and its role in vascular health, and to providing products supporting the care of this essential system. For more information, visit VascularHealthSciences.com.

###

For the original version on PRWeb visit: http://www.prweb.com/releases/prweb2012/12/prweb10214360.htm