Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) Awareness Amongst Physicians in Mumbai, India.

BACKGROUND

Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH) is a common genetic disorder affecting low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) metabolism. Prolong exposure to elevated LDL-C results in the development of atherosclerotic lesions and a substantially increased risk of Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). In contrast, early detection and effective treatment of FH can result in a significant improvement in clinical outcomes. Despite these data, FH remains largely underdiagnosed and untreated.

OBJECTIVE

To assess the awareness, knowledge, and clinical practices of FH by General Physicians (GPs) in Mumbai.

METHODS

Physicians were requested to complete a survey comprising Multiple Choice questions (MCQs) on FH. The questionnaire inquired about; familiarity and awareness of the disorder, clinical description, prevalence, inheritance and their opinions on FH clinical services.

RESULTS

Of the 79 GPs surveyed, 31% of them correctly described FH and only 28% knew about its prevalence. 51% perceived themselves to have an above moderate familiarity with this disorder. 46% of them were aware of the risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) associated with FH. 80% of GPs were unsure or unaware of whether they had FH patients under their care. 50% and 33% of physicians identified statins as monotherapy and statin & ezetimibe as a combination therapy for FH respectively.

CONCLUSION AND INTERPRETATION: Immediate attention should be focused on increasing awareness and knowledge about FH in India. Establishment of lipid clinic network will aid in improving care and clinical practices.