A recent study conducted by Global Heart Hub, an international coalition of heart patient organisations, unveiled the experiences, priorities, and needs of patients with high LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) levels.
The Insights from Patients Living with Elevated Cholesterol (IPEC) initiative assessed patients from Brazil, Australia, and the US.
The research offers insights into how healthcare professionals (HCPs) can provide personalised care through shared decision-making.
Participants emphasised the need for personalised care plans in managing hypercholesterolemia.
The individuals revealed that the use of simple language and clear explanations about the risks of unmanaged LDL-C levels helps patients take their health more seriously.
A collaborative and supportive approach between HCPs and patients will help develop care plans that consider individual circumstances and lifestyle factors, ensuring goals are both realistic and measurable.
In addition, the treatment discussions will address patient preferences, such as convenience regarding the mode and timing of administration.
The main goals highlighted by participants are to improve health outcomes, prevent heart-related complications, and maintain or enhance quality of life.
The study also uncovered structural barriers to effective shared decision-making, including limited appointment time, administrative burdens, and access issues.
Furthermore, addressing these challenges will require policy changes, which can be driven through partnerships between patient advocacy organisations and medical societies.
Global Heart Hub executive director Neil Johnson said: “The Insights from Patients living with Elevated Cholesterol (IPEC) research emphasises the necessity for comprehensive and direct communication between doctor and patient.
“When it comes to a diagnosis, the initial interaction with your healthcare provider is particularly important.
“Our empirical data indicates that this dialogue significantly impacts patients’ cardiovascular health. To put it succinctly, it has the potential to alter the disease journey.”
IPEC initiative is a multinational, patient-led effort aimed at gathering and sharing insights about the experiences of individuals with LDL-C levels that remain above target.
Led by Global Heart Hub, the initiative is supported by WomenHeart (USA), Lado A Lado Pela Vida (Brazil), and Hearts 4 Heart (Australia).
The first phase of data collection began in 2023 and ran from November 2023 to March 2024.
In May this year, Global Heart Hub announced the first findings from the IPEC data generation programme.
