It should not be construed as a final answer. Of these there were 63 men and 206 women whose cholesterol levels were high - 240 or greater. The four-year incidence of the indicators for arteriosclerosis was calculated. Compared to the larger studies upon which the relationship of cholesterol to heart disease was determined, this study examines a relatively small group of people for a relatively shorter period of time. Finally, the determination of having arteriosclerosis heart disease in those persons included in the study was based upon the questioning of subjects and findings on death certificates.
Death certificates are notoriously inaccurate.
All these facts raise questions which make us realize it is much too early for anyone 65 years of age or older to abandon the cholesterol-lowering program in which they are involved. Cholesterol may make a difference - even in the older person. William E. Hale, MD., a member of the Morton Plant medical staff, is director of the Florida Geriatric Research Program at Morton Plant Hospital.