If medication is started the first follow up should be at approximately 2 months at which time a repeated lipoprotein analysis is performed. The patient can then be seen at intervals of 3 months until the target LDL-cholesterol is reached. Then visits can be scheduled for every 4 to 6 months. Once a target LDL-cholesterol is reached, lipoprotein testing can be done annually and the patient can be monitored with quarterly or semiannual total cholesterol testing. It is difficult to modify cardiovascular risk factors in correctional settings.
Cigarette smoking remains the single most preventable cause of death and illness.
Smoking cessation programs for the incarcerated remain a great challenge. Incarcerated persons are not always afforded sufficient opportunity for aerobic exercise. Correctional health care staff also may not be sufficiently knowledgeable in advising patients on exercise programs that may benefit their cardiovascular system. Dietary choices are limited in correctional settings. Health care staff should review the diets of the facility and periodically sample those diets.