Coronavirus and cholesterol
Read about cholesterol and coronavirus, what can put you at higher risk, and what this means for you.
Here you can find out about coronavirus if you have familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH). We will build on this information as more evidence becomes available. In the meantime, feel free to email our helpline if you have questions or concerns.
If you have FH and have also been diagnosed with heart disease you are classed as moderate risk (or clinically vulnerable)
This means you should closely follow the stay at home guidelines set out by the Government because the risk of severe illness associated with the virus is higher for you than for the general population.
Most GP services, some hospitals and clinics, and some specialist FH services are unable to operate as normal in order to help support the NHS during the coronavirus pandemic. There may, therefore, be delays and cancellations for routine appointments.
Learn more about who is at high and moderate risk and the terms used.
If you have FH but have not been diagnosed with heart disease you may also be clinically vulnerable:
- you are a man and you were diagnosed and first treated for FH after the age of 50
- you are a woman and you were diagnosed and first treated for FH after the age of 60
- you have FH with other risk factors such as high blood pressure, chronic kidney disease or diabetes
- you have FH with severely increased Lipoprotein (a) levels (greater than 500mg/L or 100nmol/L)
The likelihood of having underlying heart disease if you are in one of these groups is approximately 50% (although this may be lower if you have been having treatment for a long time and it's working well).
If you fall into one of these categories you should consider yourself at a higher risk and follow the government guidelines while continuing to take all your prescribed medication.
If you are clincially vulnerable
Follow the government guidelines very closely. You can also find Government information about work and financial support. If you have any concerns about going to work please contact your GP or specialist for further advice.