What is FH?
FH is a genetic condition that causes very high LDL cholesterol (also known as “bad cholesterol”). This puts people with FH at higher-than-average risk of heart disease, heart attacks, and stroke. Treatment with lipid-lowering medications can reduce this risk by up to 80%.
Why did I get notified?
The TREAT-FH project uses information in your medical record such as health history, family history, and blood tests to see if you could have Familial Hypercholesterolemia (FH). If you were notified, there is a chance you could have FH, but it is not guaranteed. An assessment and blood test are needed to determine if you do have FH or not.
What do I do next?
A physician from DH’s Heart & Vascular Center will call you soon to answer your questions and offer you an appointment with one of our FH specialists. You can also call 603-650-2949 (Option #5) to make your own appointment. Seeing an FH specialist for screening and treatment if you are diagnosed is important. FH is a very treatable condition, and the sooner treatment is begun the better.
How long will I have to wait to see a physician?
The TREAT-FH project has reserved appointments for patients identified for FH screening, many of these are telehealth appointments so you will not need to travel to the hospital. Depending on how your schedule aligns with the available appointments, our team aims to see patients as soon as possible.
What will happen at my screening appointment?
During your appointment, one of our FH specialists will review and discuss your medical history and your family history. The provider may run blood tests to screen for the condition and to help guide your treatment. The provider can also help to give recommendations for whether or not your family members will need to be screened.
What does treatment look like if I am diagnosed?
Treatment for FH is centered around reducing the risk of future heart disease, and disease of other blood vessels in the body, which are caused by buildup of cholesterol. Treatment often involves medications and monitoring of the cholesterol levels. This can help to prevent heart attacks, strokes, and other events caused by the high cholesterol levels.
What if I have questions now?
You can reach out directly to our partner, the Family Heart Foundation. The Family Heart Foundation has FH Experts available Monday through Friday from 9 AM to 5 PM at 844-434-6334 or by email at carenavigation@thefhfoundation.org.