The Family Heart Foundation has launched an innovative program called Cholesterol Connect, offering free at-home lipid screening and personalized support to address the growing crisis of cardiovascular disease in America. The initiative, sponsored by Amgen, aims to improve access to early screening and treatment for heart health conditions.
Critical Need for Cardiovascular Screening
The program addresses a significant public health challenge: approximately 71 million Americans have elevated LDL-C levels, yet 40% remain unaware of their condition. More concerning is that over 60 million Americans have increased Lp(a) levels, with only 1.1% of adults currently being screened, despite the availability of simple blood tests. Cardiovascular disease continues to be a leading cause of death, claiming an American life every 33 seconds.
"Through Cholesterol Connect, we are able to address the disparities and access to lab work, so all people in the U.S. are empowered with knowledge of their and their family's heart health history," said Larry Sperling, chief medical officer of the Family Heart Foundation. "We ensure individuals receive the comprehensive care and education they need to take control of their cardiovascular health."
Comprehensive Testing and Support Services
The program provides a standard lipid panel that measures:
- Total cholesterol
- LDL-C
- HDL-C
- Triglycerides
- Lp(a) screening
Participants can request free test kits online through Endless Health, with prepaid shipping included. All samples are processed in CLIA-certified laboratories, ensuring reliable results that can be securely accessed online and shared with healthcare providers.
Personalized Care Navigation
A distinctive feature of Cholesterol Connect is the option for participants to receive personalized support from Family Heart Care Navigators. These professionals review test results with participants and provide educational resources through virtual consultations. The program is accessible to all U.S. residents, regardless of their insurance status.
Early Success and Industry Support
The program builds upon a successful pilot initiative launched on Lp(a) Awareness Day, which saw overwhelming demand with all test kits claimed within five days.
Paul Burton, MD, senior vice president and chief medical officer at Amgen, emphasized the program's importance: "Making Lp(a) and LDL-Cholesterol screening more easily accessible is vital to help people better understand their risk for heart attack and stroke. Amgen's collaboration with the Family Heart Foundation aims to empower individuals with resources to help them make informed decisions about their heart health and address cardiovascular disease as a public health crisis."
