A new study offers a possible explanation for why some people remain at risk of heart attacks even after their low-density lipoprotein, or bad cholesterol, has been lowered to healthy levels. Researchers identified two types of fat-carrying particles that appear to promote inflammation and damage blood vessels through mechanisms independent of cholesterol buildup. The findings suggest that cholesterol reduction alone may not fully address cardiovascular risk in certain patients, and that other lipid-driven inflammatory processes could be contributing to heart attacks.
The research adds to a growing body of evidence that inflammation plays a central role in cardiovascular disease, alongside cholesterol accumulation. Scientists say the discovery could help explain why some individuals experience heart attacks despite meeting recommended cholesterol targets, and it may inform future approaches to prevention and treatment. Further studies are needed to confirm the findings and determine how these particles might be targeted in clinical practice. The results were reported amid ongoing efforts to refine risk assessment and improve outcomes for patients with cardiovascular disease.
Independent reporting synthesized from primary wires and global correspondents.