What's the relationship between coronary artery disease (CAD) and cholesterol?
An elevated level of low density lipoprotein (LDL) and a decreased level of high density lipoprotein (HDL) are associated with a reduced risk of coronary artery disease.
A decreased level of LDL and an elevated level of HDL are associated with a reduced risk of coronary artery disease.
Levels of LDL and HDL should be about the same to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease.
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is considered 'bad' cholesterol because it contributes to plaque buildup in arteries, while HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is 'good' cholesterol that helps remove cholesterol from arteries. Therefore, lower LDL levels and higher HDL levels are associated with reduced cardiovascular risk. Option A incorrectly states the opposite relationship, and option C incorrectly suggests equal levels are optimal.