A recent study, of nearly 632,00 Canadians, found that those with the lowest HDL levels had higher death rates from heart disease and stroke over five years, as well as higher death rates from cancer and other causes.
Of interest, the researchers also found that HDL levels greater than 90mg/dL showed higher death rates from non-cardiovascular causes compared with those with HDL levels in the middle. The reasons for this are unclear and encouragement was given within this research for desirable levels of HDL to be between 40 and 60 mg/dL.
All a little confusing, but Dr Michael Shapiro, a leading Cardiologist associated with this research, has stressed the importance of regular aerobic exercise as being of the highest importance in keeping HDL levels in the safe and health range.
Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 31/1/16.