Question

Situation Arnold is 56 years old and considers himself to be in good health. He has a family history of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. He recently had a routine physical exam. He was told that his blood pressure was 130/85, his total cholesterol was 210 (LDL was 175 and HDL was 35), and his glucose levels were normal. Arnold was also informed that his weight of 190 pounds made him about 10 pounds overweight. Arnold's physician expressed some concern about the results of the exam. What finding is most likely the key cause of her concern?

Answer 1

Answer: Arnold's risk for coronary heart disease.

Arnold should worry due to the fact that one of the causes of coronary heart disease is the formation of plaque which is made up of deposits of cholesterol and other substances in the artery. Considering his blood pressure was 130/85, his total cholesterol was 210 (LDL was 175 and HDL was 35), it should raise some concern.