Issues regarding public screening for cholesterol levels in Australia.

: Several large studies from the USA and Europe show that there is a continuous graded relationship between serum cholesterol and coronary heart disease (CHD). All cholesterol levels above 5.2 mmol/L are associated with an increased CHD risk. There will be a considerable reduction in heart disease in Australia if the population can lower its cholesterol levels. Diet modification (less fat) is the preferred approach to treating high cholesterol levels. The National Heart Foundation advises all adult Australians to know their cholesterol level and make the appropriate dietary modification if necessary. Studies show that public cholesterol screenings offer an effective and cost efficient strategy for increasing community awareness of cholesterol as a risk factor in heart disease and for assisting individuals to make appropriate dietary modifications. It is important, however, that screening programs conform with certain minimum standards.