MARINE CORPS AIR STATION IWAKUNI, Japan -- Marines have always been considered an exceptionally fit group of individuals. The physical requirements one must possess to even earn the coveted title is a test of human endurance and strength. As a Marine continues down the green path he is expected to keep a certain level of physical prowess, which will help him stay alive on the battlefield. Although in tip-top shape, this physically elite group is in the sights of a silent and deadly killer – cholesterol.
Cholesterol is a soft, fat-like, waxy substance found in the bloodstream and in all the body’s cells. It’s normal to have cholesterol and it’s an important part of a healthy body because it’s used for producing cell membranes and some hormones, and serves other needed bodily functions, according to the American Heart Association. But too high a level of cholesterol in the blood can lead to coronary heart disease, which will eventually cause heart attack. It’s also a risk factor for stroke.
“To make an intelligent assessment of one’s cholesterol level, an entire panel of values is required including, but not limited to, total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TG), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) aka ‘good cholesterol’, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) aka ‘bad cholesterol’, and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL),” said Cmdr. Michael M. Jacobs, Marine Aircraft Group 12 group surgeon. “The bad, or sticky, cholesterol molecules adhere to an arterial wall and create an obstructing plug of material called plaque, that decreases blood flow and hence oxygen delivery to the heart muscle, etc.”
Cholesterol is a dangerous affliction because it goes virtually unnoticed until the damage is irreparable.
“Sadly, there are no reliable early indicators of dangerously elevated cholesterol,” said Jacobs. “It’s unfortunate that abnormal cholesterol values, as well as high blood pressure, are not associated with pain or obvious warning signs. If that were the case there would be a tremendous patient load at BHC Iwakuni. There is a considerable number of individuals that live and work on Station who have untreated abnormally elevated cholesterol and blood pressure.”
Although some are genetically predisposed to high cholesterol levels, all to often we are our own worst enemy when dealing with cholesterol.
“The tragedy of vending machine products and fast food availability is distressing,” said Jacobs. “We must reinforce the necessity of making wise, healthful dietary choices. For example, vending machines in family housing encourages unhealthy choices among our most vulnerable population - children and teens. The obesity and diabetes epidemic in America is absolutely linked to over consumption of high fat, high sugar, caloric dense, processed foods. The short and long-term burden on our health care system is staggering to contemplate.”
There is a simple test available at the Branch Health Clinic to determine cholesterol levels. The fasting cholesterol screening is a quick, yet accurate, assessment of cholesterol levels.
“I encourage everyone to discuss with their provider at BHC Iwakuni the merit of a fasting cholesterol screening,” said Jacobs. “The interval at which cholesterol screening is done is often determined by one’s initial test, family medical history, and associated medical problems.”
For more information, or to make an appointment to check your cholesterol call the Branch Health Clinic at 253-5571.