Underdiagnosis of inherited high cholesterol (IHC) may be reduced if at-risk populations are aware of IHC existence and actively seek diagnosis. This study describes correlates of the public's IHC awareness.
Methods
Telephone interviews were conducted with 4117 Dutch adults.
Results
Half of the respondents were aware of IHC; however, their knowledge was superficial. Awareness was weakly predicted by family history of cardiovascular diseases (CVD), and not by own CVD status. Awareness was associated with higher health-related knowledge and experiences with cholesterol testing.
Conclusions
Professionals should help the public to relate their own and family CVD history to IHC.
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