Jules Payne
Chief Executive HEART UK – The Cholesterol Charity
Cholesterol affects almost half of adults in the UK, 1 yet it is widely misunderstood, and myths about cholesterol persist.2
HEART UK wants every adult to know and understand their cholesterol levels, recognise their wider cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and take action early.
Assess personal risk of stroke
The furring up of arteries does not happen suddenly; it develops silently over decades. If we could see our arteries on the outside of our bodies, we would notice changes sooner and be more likely to act before damage is done.
On 7 July 2026, the NHS published a Cardiovascular Disease Modern Service Framework, putting prevention at its centre and setting a bold ambition to reduce premature mortality from heart disease and stroke in England by 25% within 10 years. However, this is not just an NHS challenge; it is a population challenge. We should all understand our personal CVD risk and take practical steps early to reduce the chance of heart attack or stroke.
Around 250,000 people in the UK may have FH,
yet only around 8% are identified.3
Healthy diet and lifestyle prevent CVD
A healthy diet and lifestyle remain the cornerstone of CVD prevention. HEART UK supports people through Cholesterol SMART®, a science-based programme offering targeted, practical guidance to improve cholesterol and cardiovascular outcomes through everyday changes.
Some people will also need medication to lower cholesterol. Statins are often the first option, and with several types available, speak to a healthcare professional about alternatives. Other effective treatments may also be appropriate.
Independent CVD risk factors
Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is an inherited form of high cholesterol. Around 250,000 people in the UK may have FH, yet only around 8% are identified.3 If your family has a history of early heart disease (below age 60), know your cholesterol levels. With FH, cholesterol is high from birth, so the longer it remains undiagnosed, the greater the risk.
Lipoprotein(a), known as Lp(a), is another blood fat and an independent risk factor for heart disease. It’s not routinely measured, but if you have FH or unexplained heart disease in your family, HEART UK encourages you to ask about testing. The message is simple: know your CVD risk, act early and seek support.
[1] Our Future Health, 2023. Revealed: over half of people have high cholesterol and over 1 in 4 have high blood pressure. tinyurl.com/44jrvb8j
[2] BBC Science Focus, 2026. Here’s what actually causes high cholesterol (and how to cut it). tinyurl.com/5xaa2y5r.
[3] NHS England, Familial Hypercholesterolaemia (FH). tinyurl.com/2hy9e3sc.
