What LDL cholesterol level is recommended for patients with two or more risk factors?

The recommended LDL cholesterol level for patients with two or more risk factors is less than 130 mg/dL. This target is considered important because individuals with multiple risk factors for cardiovascular disease—including but not limited to hypertension, diabetes, tobacco use, and family history—are at an increased risk for heart disease and stroke. Lowering LDL cholesterol can significantly reduce this risk.

A level of less than 130 mg/dL aligns with guidelines designed to manage and reduce the overall cardiovascular risk profile in higher-risk populations. By maintaining cholesterol levels below this threshold, healthcare providers aim to prevent the accumulation of atherosclerotic plaque in the arteries, further decreasing the chances of cardiovascular events.

Options suggesting levels above 130 mg/dL, such as less than 160 mg/dL or less than 140 mg/dL, are not in line with the higher-risk management and may allow for an elevated risk of cardiovascular complications. Setting targets lower than 130 mg/dL, such as the extremely low target of less than 100 mg/dL, may generally be recommended for those with established coronary artery disease or severe risk profiles, but is not the standard for patients with just two or more risk factors.