Coronary heart disease and dyslipidaemia in Hong Kong: a survey of the knowledge and opinions of medical practitioners

Abstract

A questionnaire covering cardiovascular epidemiology, hyperlipidaemia treatment and laboratory tests attracted 460 replies from 4,100 Hong Kong doctors. Most knew of the low cholesterol levels and low rates of coronary heart disease (CHD) in China. Many did not know about the high levels of CHD in Singapore, the effects of renal disease or alcohol on lipids, and the atherosclerosis regression produced by lowering cholesterol. There was limited access to HDL and LDL cholesterol estimations and an inadequate knowledge of laboratory test limitations. Eighty percent preferred the development of Hong Kong Guidelines for the detection and management of lipid disorders ahead of US and European Guidelines. Ninety percent supported combined individual and population strategies to reduce CHD mortality and morbidity. Some deficiencies in the knowledge of dietary and drug treatment were evident. The study clearly demonstrated (1) deficiencies in knowledge requiring further education and (2) the desire for local Lipid Management Guidelines.