The Silent Threat: Why High Cholesterol Deserves Your Attention

High cholesterol, also known as hyperlipidemia, is often referred to as the “silent threat” because it rarely shows symptoms until it’s already done serious damage to your heart and blood vessels. In fact, many people don’t know they have it until they suffer a heart attack or stroke.

What Is High Cholesterol—and Why Should You Care?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance your body uses to build cells and make hormones, but when LDL (bad cholesterol) levels become too high, plaque begins to build up in the arteries. This narrows the arteries, increases blood pressure, and elevates your risk of cardiovascular disease. According to HealthLink BC’s cholesterol treatment guidelines, screening and managing cholesterol levels is essential for long-term heart health—especially if you have risk factors like obesity, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.

Common Risk Factors

You’re at greater risk for high cholesterol if you:

• Eat a diet high in saturated fats and processed foods

• Smoke or lead a sedentary lifestyle

• Are over the age of 40

• Have high blood pressure or diabetes

• Have a family history of heart conditions

How to Know if You Have High Cholesterol

Unfortunately, you can’t “feel” high cholesterol. That’s why routine blood tests and cholesterol screenings are so important—especially if you have one or more risk factors.

If you haven’t had your cholesterol checked recently, visit our Walk-In Clinic or speak with a Gilmore pharmacist for an assessment.

How Gilmore Pharmacy Supports Cholesterol Care

At Gilmore Pharmacy, we don’t just treat high cholesterol—we help you manage it holistically. Our pharmacist-led program includes:

• Personalized medication management (including statins and alternatives)

• Blister packs and home delivery for easy medication adherence

• Lifestyle and nutrition support

• Health assessments and blood pressure checks

• Chronic disease care coordination if you also have diabetes or hypertension

We’re proud to be a community-based resource for heart health, offering support that goes beyond prescriptions. Our goal is to empower you to take control of your cholesterol—before it takes control of your health.

Prevention is Possible

With the right lifestyle changes and medical support, high cholesterol is manageable—and often preventable. A balanced diet, regular physical activity, and medication adherence can reduce your cardiovascular risk dramatically.

Ready to take control of your cholesterol?
Visit our High Cholesterol Management page to learn how we can support you with personalized, pharmacist-led care in Burnaby.