The Work of a Lipid Clinic: an Audit of Performance

An audit of the work of a lipid clinic revealed the need topromote awareness of the problem of hypercholesterolaemla, particularlyamong the ethnic minority groups. Significant reductions inserum lipid levels and blood pressure were achieved, thoughtarget levels were reached in only 40 per cent of patients.Efforts to encourage weight reduction among the obese and todiscourage smoking had limited success. The establishment ofa lipid clinic ensures ready access to paramedical advice andpermits effective treatment of hyperlipidaemia and other coronaryrisk factors. Such a service costs approximately £500per patient per year.