Chuck,
It's complicated and not entirely settled. The ratio is important: a high HDL to LDL ratio is better. But the total LDL number matters, too. I'm pretty sure I wouldn't want a LDL of 500, even if my HDL were 300. The exact treatment goals and what's considered treatment-worthy (this goes for high BP, as well as cholesterol) change over time. Newer studies are constantly emerging that refine these matters. I don't mean to equivocate, but there's a variety of opinions out there. OTOH, that statins are beneficial is beyond question......at least today.
I can go back about 25 years to the days when nitrates and pumonary artery catheters were believed to prevent perioperative ischemia (reduce risk of heart attack). But the notions were based on theory, not evidence. They have since been discredited. Beta blockers rule the roost, nowadays.
Sad to say, I'm pretty doubtful for LV this year. I'm trying to persuade my wife to come, but maybe next year.
Sam
