In the Canary Islands, people are urged to lower cholesterol after a heart attack to prevent recurrence.

The cardiology department of the Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria Hospital (Canary Islands) has launched the "Your Red Line 55" campaign. Its goal is to inform people who have had a heart attack about the importance of lowering "bad" cholesterol (LDL) to a level of 55 mg/dL. This will help avoid a repeat heart attack.

The presentation was attended by representatives of local authorities and the hospital, as well as Tomás Fajardo, president of Cardioalianza, an organization that brings together 47 support groups across Spain for people with cardiovascular diseases.

The campaign is supported by the pharmaceutical company Novartis. An information stand will be open at the hospital until September 13. An online platform has also been created with the slogan: "After a heart attack, your LDL cholesterol has a limit, but your desire to live is limitless!". There you can find useful materials, such as a guide to deciphering test results.

Diana Mora, a representative of the Department of Health, emphasized that the campaign will help patients lead a healthy lifestyle and prevent recurrent heart attacks.

Julio Hernández, head of the cardiology department, explained that after the first heart attack, the risk of a recurrence is very high, especially in the first months. Therefore, it is important to control risk factors to reduce the likelihood of recurrence.

Tomás Fajardo from CardioAlianza added that a healthy lifestyle and adherence to doctors' recommendations are the key to success. He urged people to contact support organizations that can provide the necessary information and assistance.

Ester Espinosa from Novartis emphasized that the company not only develops medicines, but also strives to promote the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

According to statistics, every fourth person who has had a heart attack faces other vascular problems within two years. Therefore, it is important to maintain a low level of "bad" cholesterol.

Unfortunately, more than 80% of patients do not reach this goal. Atherosclerosis is a disease in which plaques consisting of cholesterol form on the walls of arteries. Over time, these plaques grow and can lead to a heart attack or stroke.

To avoid recurrence, doctors recommend:

• Taking prescribed medications, including statins, to lower "bad" cholesterol to 55 mg/dL or lower.
• Monitoring blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
• Quitting smoking.
• Having regular check-ups.
• Engaging in physical activity.
• Following a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, fish and olive oil, and limiting the consumption of saturated fats and sugar.
• Controlling weight.
• Reducing alcohol consumption.