National Cholesterol Month

National Cholesterol Month: calling all pharmacies to the forefront

As October settles in and autumn leaves begin to fall, pharmacies across the UK find themselves at the vanguard of a battle against a silent yet formidable adversary—high cholesterol. This month offers more than just a calendar slot to raise awareness; it serves as a rallying cry for pharmacy teams to solidify their role as community sentinels in the fight against cardiovascular disease. To make a significant impact, they can focus on some of these key actions to transform lives and inspire healthier choices:

Offer free cholesterol checks: start conversations
This October, pharmacists and their teams should take the initiative to offer complimentary cholesterol screenings. By providing this essential service, they are not just checking numbers, they are opening the door to crucial conversations in the community about heart health. Every patient engaged could be taking the first step toward better awareness and understanding of their cardiovascular risk.

Educate with impact
Day in and day out, pharmacists encounter patients who, despite their best intentions, remain oblivious to the hidden dangers of elevated cholesterol levels. They can transform their counter into beacons of knowledge by setting up displays that unravel the complexities of cholesterol and its health implications. Utilising striking visuals and clear, relatable language will capture attention; and empowering patients with information that sparks curiosity and encourages them to take control of their health is key—as informed patients are healthier patients.

The cholesterol conundrum
High cholesterol often flies under the radar, perceived as just another statistic. It’s time to shine a light on this silent yet deadly threat and community pharmacies can play a pivotal role in changing perceptions, while making the message clear—understanding cholesterol levels isn’t just beneficial; it’s essential.

Beyond the counter
Medication is vital, but true wellness extends far beyond the pill bottle and National Cholesterol Month can be used to inspire patients to embrace healthier lifestyles. Pharmacists can discuss the benefits of nutrient-rich foods, like those high in omega-3s, slashing saturated fat and the importance of fibre in diets. Their guidance can transform a simple pharmacy visit into a meaningful conversation about lasting health changes.

Statins, supplements and the art of adherence
While statins may be the bedrock of cholesterol control, pharmacists and technicians can elevate treatment by reviewing medication regimes, ensuring adherence and addressing concerns about side effects—a stumbling block for many. They can also extend their expertise to offer patients more ‘holistic’ alternatives—think plant sterols and stanols.

Inspire change—launch a campaign
By harnessing the power of social media and in-store promotions, UK pharmacies can amplify their message this National Cholesterol Month. Creating captivating posts that share success stories, tips for healthy living and the importance of cholesterol management will help them reach out far beyond the pharmacy walls. Together, they can reshape the narrative from reactive care to proactive engagement.

Take action this October
To bring it all home, dedicated pharmacy teams are the heartbeat of their communities, entrusted with chaperoning patients on their health journeys. So, this National Cholesterol Month is an opportune time for them to position themselves as champions of heart health. By screening, educating and inspiring change, they can make a monumental impact on cardiovascular health—one patient at a time.

Related Links:
Heart health:
https://www.pharmacymagazine.co.uk/cpd-modules/first-prescriptions-lipid-management
https://www.pharmacymagazine.co.uk/news/statin-use-should-be-widened-says-nice https://www.pharmacymagazine.co.uk/news/first-person-helping-ease-the-burden-of-heart-failure 
https://www.pharmacymagazine.co.uk/podcasts/pharmacy-magazine-podcast-category-insight-heart-health

Nutrition:
https://www.tmmagazine.co.uk/cpd/nutrition-and-medicines-part-one
https://www.tmmagazine.co.uk/cpd/nutrition-and-medicines-part-two https://www.pharmacymagazine.co.uk/clinical/1212495-nutrition-and-medicines-part-three