Think Again About Cholesterol: A survey among adults ages 25 + in 12 countries Prepared by: Harris...

Think Again About Cholesterol:A survey among adults ages 25+ in 12 countries

Prepared by:

Harris Poll

28 September , 2015

Table of Contents Page

Background & Objectives 3

Sample Size Snapshot 4

Detailed Research Method 5

Report Notes 6

Executive Summary 7

Detailed Findings 15

Concern: Personal Level 16

Concern: Public Policy 22

Knowledge: Definition and Impact of LDL Cholesterol 27

Knowledge: Causes and Symptoms 30

Knowledge: Diagnosis 33

Knowledge: Action and Management 37

Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Knowledge and Impact 44

Appendix 49

Demographics 49

Background & ObjectivesOn behalf of the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) and sponsored by Sanofi and Regeneron, Harris Poll conducted a 12-country survey among adults ages 25+ in the UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Belgium, Netherlands, Denmark, Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Japan in order to explore ways to increase global awareness and prevention of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD).

The specific research objectives were to:

Identify adults’ concern and knowledge about heart health and high cholesterol, on both a personal and public policy level

Uncover areas of misconception of the definition, risk factors, symptoms, and consequences of high LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol

Determine adults’ awareness of familial hypercholesterolemia

Sample Size SnapshotCountry Sample Size

UK 1,051

France 1,033

Germany 1,006

Italy 1,006

Spain 1,036

Belgium 1,001

Netherlands 1,000

Denmark 1,001

Norway 1,000

Sweden 1,000

Finland 1,001

Japan 1,007

TOTAL 12,142

Detailed Research MethodThis survey was conducted online by Harris Poll on behalf of the European Atherosclerosis Society (EAS) and sponsored by Sanofi and Regeneron between 25th of August and 9th of September, 2015 among 12,142 adults aged 25+ residing in Belgium (n=1,001); Denmark (n=1,001); Finland (n=1,001); France (n=1,033); Germany (n=1,006); Italy (n=1,006); Japan (n=1,007); Netherlands (n=1,000); Norway (n=1,000); Spain (n=1,036); Sweden (n=1,000); and UK (n=1,051).

Raw data were weighted by the following demographic variables where necessary to reflect the adult population in each country as follows: Belgium (age by gender, region, education, primary language); Denmark (age by gender, education, region); Finland (age by gender, region, education, household size, number of children in household); France (age by gender, region, education, internet usage); Germany (age by gender, household income, education, region, internet usage); Italy (age by gender, household income, education, region, internet usage); Japan (age by gender, education, marital status, region, household size); Netherlands (age by gender, education, region, internet usage, household size); Norway (age by gender, education, household income, region, household size, marital status); Spain (age by gender, household income, education, region, internet usage); Sweden (age by gender, education, region, household size, internet usage); and UK (age by gender, region, education, internet usage). For Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, and UK, propensity score weighting was also used to adjust for respondents’ propensity to be online. For the global 12-country total, an additional post-weight was applied to give each country equal weight within the global total.

All sample surveys and polls, whether or not they use probability sampling, are subject to multiple sources of error which are most often not possible to quantify or estimate, including sampling error, coverage error, error associated with nonresponse, error associated with question wording and response options, and post-survey weighting and adjustments. Therefore, Harris Poll avoids the words “margin of error” as they are misleading. All that can be calculated are different possible sampling errors with different probabilities for pure, unweighted, random samples with 100% response rates. These are only theoretical because no published polls come close to this ideal.

Respondents for this survey were selected from among those who have agreed to participate in Harris Poll surveys. The data have been weighted to reflect the composition of the general adult population ages 25+ in Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and UK. Because the sample is based on those who agreed to participate in Harris Poll surveys, no estimates of theoretical sampling error can be calculated.

Report NotesIn tables and charts:

A dash (-) denotes a value of zero.

An asterisk (*) denotes a value less than one percent but greater than zero.

Percentages may not add up to 100% due to weighting and/or computer rounding.

Results based on small samples (n<100) should be interpreted as directional only.

Throughout this report:

“CVD” refers to “Cardiovascular disease”.

“Adults surveyed” refers to the global 12-country total of all adults surveyed.

Executive Summary

8

Concern: Personal Level

“Bad” Cholesterol Recognized as Top Priority for All; But Notable Absence of Awareness of the Larger Impact for Women Heart disease and stroke are top-of-mind worries for at least 1 in 4 adults surveyed, surpassed only by cancer as an overriding health concern. And, most adults surveyed (especially those in the UK, Spain, and Finland) understand the link between heart health and high cholesterol. The majority of adults recognize that high LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol should be a health priority for everyone, including those younger than 40 and those who are not overweight. That said, 1 in 4 incorrectly believe that it does not need to be a focus until someone shows signs or symptoms. And, an overwhelming majority is unaware that women have a higher risk of high bad cholesterol than men do.

• Cancer is the most common disease that adults surveyed personally worry about (45%). However, about one-quarter say they worry most about heart disease (27%); dementia (27%); and stroke (26%). Certain countries are more likely to worry about heart disease, in particular, Belgium, Denmark, Norway, and Finland, while stroke is more concerning in Spain, Italy, and Finland.

• The majority of adults surveyed understand that high cholesterol affects heart health (59%), however significantly more recognize the impact of obesity (72%);,high blood pressure (70%), cigarette smoking (64%), and stress (63%). Adults in the UK are by far the most aware of any other country about the link between high cholesterol and heart health, followed by Spain and Finland.

• More than 8 in 10 (especially in the UK, Italy, and Sweden) believe that high LDL (or “bad’’) cholesterol is something that everyone should be very concerned about (84%).

• Nearly 8 in 10 adults surveyed (especially in Spain, Denmark, and Finland) realize that high cholesterol is something adults younger than 40 need to worry about (77%). The majority of adults surveyed (notably higher in Italy, Spain, Denmark, and Finland) know that people need to be concerned about LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol even if they are not overweight (71%).

• However, one-quarter (especially in Belgium, Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden) feel that adults do not need to worry about high LDL (or “bad’’) cholesterol unless they have symptoms (25%).

• Most do not know if there is a difference (18%) – or believe there is no difference (45%) – between the genders for risk of having high LDL levels.

• Less than 1 in 10 (8%), slightly more so in the Netherlands, Norway, Finland, and Japan, are correct in saying women have a generally higher incidence.

9

Concern: Public Policy

Lack of Knowledge about Exact Toll of Cardiovascular Disease; But Consensus on Need for Greater National Emphasis on “Bad” Cholesterol Less than 1 in 5 adults recognize either the annual financial burden ($196 billion) or the death toll (between 2 and 4 million) of cardiovascular disease on the European region. The majority of adults surveyed also don’t recognize the larger impact that high cholesterol has on Europe compared to other regions around the world – most incorrectly believe North America is hardest hit. That said, over 8 in 10 realize that their individual country should be more concerned with “bad” cholesterol, perhaps elevating the condition as a public policy issue.

• Only about one-fifth correctly identify:

• Around $196 billion as the estimated cost of cardiovascular disease to the EU economy annually (17%). Most admit they are not sure (54%).

• Between 2 and 4 million as the number of deaths caused by cardiovascular disease each year in Europe (15%). Many more (29%) underestimate, and 4 in 10 admit they don’t know (41%).

• Nearly one-third of adults surveyed (31%) accurately reflect that high cholesterol is most common in Europe above all other regions. However, nearly 1 in 2 incorrectly say North America (46%).

• Those in Germany and Finland are most likely to cite Europe as having the highest incidence of high cholesterol.

• 83% say that, as a nation, they should be more concerned about high LDL (or “bad’’) cholesterol, especially in the UK, Italy, and Spain.

10

Knowledge: Definition and Impact of LDL Cholesterol

Modest Understanding of the Good and the Bad, but Not the Specifics Most adults surveyed realize that there is a distinction between “good” and “bad” cholesterol. However, the majority admits that they didn’t know that LDL was the “bad” cholesterol and that it was worse to have higher levels of LDL than HDL cholesterol. Italy and Finland (and to some extent Spain and Japan) seem to have slightly greater foundational knowledge about the definition of the different types of cholesterol.

• Nearly 6 in 10 adults surveyed (especially in France, Italy, Spain, and Finland) realize there is such a thing as “good” cholesterol (58%).

• Only one-third of adults surveyed (more so in Italy, Finland ,and Japan) recognize that LDL cholesterol is referred to as “bad” cholesterol (34%). Most admit they don’t know (56%).

• Only about one-quarter (more so in Italy, Spain, Finland, and Japan) recognize that it's not better to have high levels of LDL cholesterol compared to HDL cholesterol (27%). Most don’t know (62%).

High Levels of “Bad” Cholesterol Seen As Bad, but Low Levels Not Seen as Good Nearly 8 in 10 adults surveyed (and even more so in Italy, Spain, and Finland) understand that having high “bad” cholesterol puts someone at greater health risk – and make a link to serious consequences including higher risk of heart attack, arterial disease, and stroke. However, far fewer reach the reverse conclusion that lower LDL or “bad” cholesterol levels would be beneficial for someone’s health. • About 8 in 10 adults:

• Know that having high “bad” cholesterol levels puts one at a greater health risk (78%), especially in Italy, Spain and Finland.

• Recognize the consequences of having high LDL levels (79%), including higher risk of heart attack (63%), arterial disease (52%), and stroke (48%), especially in Italy, Spain, Finland, and France.

• Less than half (though more so in Italy, Spain, Denmark, and Finland) realize that low levels of “bad” cholesterol is good for one’s long-term health (46%).

11

Knowledge: Causes and Symptoms

Inaccurate Link Made to Aging; And Not (Correctly) to Genes The majority of adults surveyed are aware that certain factors (like diet or weight) can trigger higher LDL levels. However, there is much less familiarity among the population about the impact of genes (i.e., that high “bad” cholesterol can be inherited). And, about 1 in 2 adults surveyed make a mistaken connection to the effects of aging and believe incorrectly that high “bad” cholesterol is a natural consequence of getting older. Nearly half also incorrectly believe that there are noticeable symptoms associated with “bad” cholesterol when it reaches high levels. Notably, adults in Italy (and to some extent those in Finland) display greater awareness on nearly all the knowledge metrics regarding symptoms and causes. • More than 8 in 10 (82%), especially in Italy, Spain, and Finland, are aware of certain factors that greatly impact LDL levels, in particular diet (52%) and

weight (52%).

• Less than half (but more so in France, Italy, Netherlands, and Finland) recognize that “bad” cholesterol can be inherited (45%). • Only about 1 in 2 (but more so in UK, Germany, Italy, and Norway) understand that high LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol is not inevitable with aging (49%).

• More than 4 in 10 (44%) incorrectly believe that there are symptoms associated with high LDL cholesterol such as fatigue, weight gain, or breathing difficulty. Only about 1 in 5, more so in Spain and Finland, correctly say there are no symptoms (22%).

12

Knowledge: Diagnosis

Pervasive Lack of Knowledge on Goals and Measures The vast majority of adults surveyed (slightly less so among adults in Finland) do not have a solid understanding of the tools and treatment needed to manage high LDL cholesterol. Though about 8 in 10 realize that a blood test can be used to measure LDL cholesterol, only a small minority of adults (about 1 in 10) recognizes either the correct target range for an adult’s LDL cholesterol or the proper testing time frame. • 81% realize that a blood test can be used to measure LDL cholesterol.

• Only about 1 in 10 adults, much more so in Finland, correctly state that:

• The target goal for LDL cholesterol for adults over 40 is below 50 mg/dL (2.8 mmol/l) (10%). Most (59%) are not sure.

• Adults should be screened every 2 to 5 years for high LDL cholesterol (13%). Most incorrectly overstate that it is once a year or more (69%).

13

Knowledge: Action and Management

Consensus on Need for Action, but Few Steps Actually Taken The vast majority of adults surveyed stress the importance of people knowing if they have high “bad” cholesterol. However, almost universally, adults surveyed feel that people aren’t doing enough to manage it. About 9 in 10 believe managing high LDL with diet is important. Despite heavy emphasis being placed on LDL knowledge, about 9 in 10 adults surveyed admit they personally have no idea what their LDL level is, either because they have never gotten tested – or because they can’t remember. Moreover, most adults surveyed (in particular in the UK and France) do not believe that there is any clear information available on LDL management. • Nearly 9 in 10 adults (especially in the UK, Italy, and Spain) believe it is important that people know whether or not they have high LDL (or “bad’’)

cholesterol (89%).

• Almost 9 in 10 adults (in particular in the UK) feel people should be doing more to manage their high LDL (or “bad’’) cholesterol (88%).

• However, about two-thirds (especially in Norway, Sweden, Finland, and Japan) also believe managing high blood pressure is generally more important than managing high LDL (or “bad’’) cholesterol (63%).

• Across the board, the majority of adults surveyed agree that managing high LDL (or “bad’’) cholesterol with diet is important (89%).

• The vast majority of adults surveyed admit they either have never tested their cholesterol levels (31%) or don’t recall what their LDL (61%); HDL (62%); and total cholesterol (59%) was the last time they were tested.

• The Netherlands and Sweden are, by far, the most likely to have never tested their cholesterol levels, followed by Denmark, the UK, Germany, and Norway.

• More than half of adults (in particular in the UK and France) believe there isn’t clear information available on how people should manage their LDL (or “bad’’) cholesterol (57%).

14

Familial Hypercholesterolemia: Knowledge and Impact

Low Level of Perceived and Actual Awareness of Familial Hypercholesterolemia There is a general lack of familiarity with familial hypercholesterolemia, both how to test for it and what the implications are. Only a small minority (about 1 in 5) realizes that children have a 50/50 chance of inheriting the disease if one of their parents has it. The Western European countries (like Italy, France, and Spain) generally demonstrate more overall awareness of the condition. • 63% have never heard of familial hypercholesterolemia. Another 25% have heard of it, but are not familiar with it.

• There is greater familiarity in Italy and France, followed by Spain.

• Nearly 1 in 2 (45%) are not sure how someone can tell if they have familial hypercholesterolemia. However, 42% correctly say a blood test and 23% correctly say a genetic test.

• Not surprisingly, those who are aware of hypercholesterolemia are more likely to mention both tests.

• Less than 4 in 10 (36%) realize that the result of familial hypercholesterolemia is very high LDL cholesterol levels. Most don’t know, except in Italy, Spain, and France.

• Not surprisingly, those who are aware of hypercholesterolemia are more likely to make the connection.

• Only about 1 in 5 (22%), more so in Norway, Germany, Italy, and Netherlands, realize that there is a 50% chance of a child inheriting the condition if a parent has familial hypercholesterolemia. Most admit they aren’t sure.

• Again, those who are aware of hypercholesterolemia are more likely to correctly identify the likelihood of inheritance.

Detailed Findings

Detailed FindingsConcern: Personal Level

None

Other

Hepatitis

Ebola

HIV/AIDS

Diabetes

Stroke

Heart disease

Dementia

Cancer

32%

8%

5%

6%

8%

19%

26%

27%

27%

45%

Global Total

Nearly 2 in 5 adults are personally worried about heart disease or stroke, only lagging behind worries of cancer

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007) Q700 Which of the following diseases or health conditions, if any, are you personally most worried about? Please select all that apply.

17

Worried About…

CVD (NET)Heart

DiseaseStroke

UK 35% 26% 23%

France 36% 27% 29%

Germany 25% 18% 17%

Italy 39% 22% 31%

Spain 43% 25% 35%

Belgium 44% 34% 31%

Netherlands 29% 24% 16%

Denmark 44% 38% 23%

Norway 41% 31% 29%

Sweden 41% 29% 29%

Finland 49% 35% 34%

Japan 21% 13% 15%

CVD NET: 37%

Diseases or Health Conditions Personally Most Worried About

18

Adults are less likely to cite high cholesterol or family history as factors most affecting heart health, compared to being weight, high blood pressure, or smoking

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q705 As far as you know, which of the following factors most affect heart health? Please select all that apply.

High cholesterol

UK 78%France 57%Germany 52%Italy 71%Spain 76%

Belgium 64%Netherlands 8%Denmark 56%

Norway 59%

Sweden 56%

Finland 75%

Japan 52%

Factors that Most Affect Heart Health

Not sure

Other

Diabetes

Family history

High alcohol intake

Unhealthy diet

High cholesterol

Physical inactivity

Stress

Cigarette smoking

High blood pressure

Being overweight

6%

3%

32%

39%

47%

57%

59%

59%

63%

64%

70%

72%

Global Total

19

84% 89% 86% 84% 88% 87% 87% 83% 82% 78% 88% 74% 83%

Global To-tal

UK France Germany Italy Spain Belgium Nether-lands

Denmark Norway Sweden Finland Japan3% 2% 3% 3% 4% 5% 3% 4% 4% 5% 2% 5% 3%12% 9% 11% 13% 8% 8% 10% 14% 14% 17%

10%

21%14%

50% 54% 51%58%

45%33%

55%54%

44%48%

41%

52%61%

35% 35% 36%26%

44%54%

32% 29%38%

30%

47%

22% 23%

Strongly agree Somewhat agree Somewhat disagree Strongly disagree

More than 4 in 5 adults believe high LDL cholesterol is something that everyone should be concerned about, especially those in the UK, Italy, and Sweden

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q900 How much do you agree or disagree with each of the following statements?

High LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol is something that everyone should be very concerned about.

Agree

NET

20

25% 21% 25% 27% 19% 22% 28% 30% 24% 32% 31% 23% 22%

Global To-tal


Denmark Norway Sweden Finland Japan

36% 37% 37%27%

50% 52%36% 32% 37%

27% 32% 32% 33%

39% 42% 38%46%

31% 26%

36% 38%39%

41% 37%45% 44%

20% 18% 20% 22%12% 14% 24% 24%

20%27% 25%

17% 20%

5% 4% 5% 5% 6% 8% 4% 6% 4% 5% 6% 6% 2%


A quarter of adults feel high LDL cholesterol is not something to be worried about unless one is experiencing symptoms, especially those in Belgium, Netherlands, Norway, and Sweden

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007Q900 How much do you agree or disagree with each of the following statements?

Adults do not need to worry about high LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol unless they have symptoms.

Agree

NET

21

Nearly half say there is no difference in likelihood of having high LDL Cholesterol based on gender

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142)Q815 Do you think men or women are more likely to have high LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol?

8%

Women

29%

Men

18%

82%

Not Sure

Global Total

More Likely to Have High LDL Cholesterol

45%

55%

No Difference

Detailed FindingsConcern: Public Policy

23

Only 17% of adults are aware CVD costs the EU economy around 196 billion a year; more than half are not sure

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q715 To the best of your knowledge, what is the estimated cost of cardiovascular disease to the EU economy per year?

Estimated Cost of Cardiovascular Disease to the EU Economy Per Year

17%

28%

54%

Global Total

Correct response (196 billion)

Incorrect response

Not sure

Correct Respons

e

Incorrect

Response

Not Sure

UK 16% 33% 51%

France 21% 28% 51%

Germany 25% 42% 33%

Italy 12% 22% 66%

Spain 12% 23% 65%

Belgium 21% 30% 49%


Denmark 20% 24% 56%

Norway 17% 25% 58%

Sweden 18% 31% 51%

Finland 20% 31% 49%

Japan 9% 17% 74%

24

Only 15% of adults are aware that there are between 2 million and 4 million deaths annually across Europe due to CVD

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q720 Across Europe, how many deaths a year do you think are caused by cardiovascular disease?

Deaths Per Year Caused By CVD

15%

44%

41%

Global Total

Correct response (2 - 4 million)

Incorrect response

Not sure

Correct Respons

e

Incorrect

Response

Not Sure

UK 16% 44% 40%

France 18% 41% 41%

Germany 17% 55% 27%

Italy 14% 42% 44%

Spain 8% 42% 49%

Belgium 16% 45% 40%


Denmark 16% 43% 41%

Norway 19% 45% 36%

Sweden 19% 48% 33%

Finland 18% 36% 46%

Japan 9% 32% 59%

25

Adults are more likely to point the finger to North America for highest levels of high cholesterol, yet in actuality it is most common in Europe

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q725 In which geographical region do you think high cholesterol is most common?

46%

31%

3%2%

1%

1%17%

Global Total

North AmericaEuropeSouth AmericaAfricaSouth East AsiaOtherNot sure

Europe

UK 28%

France 26%

Germany 40%

Italy 23%

Spain 22%

Belgium 33%

Netherlands 36%

Denmark 40%

Norway 36%

Sweden 32%

Finland 46%

Japan 8%

Geographic Region Where High Cholesterol is Most Common

26

83% 90% 85% 74% 89% 90% 83% 82% 80% 79% 85% 82% 83%

Global To-tal


Denmark Norway Sweden Finland Japan3% 2% 3% 3% 3% 4% 3% 4% 3% 5% 3% 3% 3%13%

8% 12%23%

8% 6% 14% 14% 17% 16%12% 15% 15%

54%56%

62%55%

48%35%

58% 56% 52% 51%

46%

59% 66%

30% 34%23% 18%

41%55%

25% 26% 28% 28%39%

23% 17%


Majority of adults believe their nation should be more concerned about high LDL cholesterol, especially those in the UK, Italy, and Spain

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007 Q900 How much do you agree or disagree with each of the following statements?

As a nation, we should be more concerned about high LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol.

Agree

NET

Detailed FindingsKnowledge: Definition and Impact of LDL Cholesterol

28

Room for improvement on various aspects of cholesterol knowledge

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS Global Total (n=12142)Q708 Please indicate if you believe the following statements are true, false, or you are not sure. Q710 Please indicate if you believe the following statements are true, false, or you are not sure.

High cholesterol isn't something adults younger than 40 need to worry about.

It's better to have high levels of LDL cholesterol than HDL cholesterol.

There is no such thing as ''good'' cholesterol.

LDL cholesterol is referred to as ''bad'' cholesterol.

77%

27%

58%

10%

8%

12%

18%

34%

Global Total

People do not need to be concerned about LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol if they are not

overweight.

Getting high LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol is inevitable with aging.

High ''bad'' cholesterol can be inherited.

Having low levels of ''bad'' cholesterol is good for one's long term health.

Having high ''bad'' cholesterol levels puts one at a greater health risk.

71%

49%

16%

21%

5%

6%

16%

45%

46%

78%

56% are not sure

62% are not sure

23% are not sure

17% are not sure

39% are not sure

33% are not sure

15% are not sure

35% are not sure

23% are not sure

■ FALSE ■ TRUE ■ FALSE ■ TRUE

True or False…

29

About 8 in 10 recognize any consequences of high LDL cholesterol, namely heart attack, arterial disease, and stroke

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q810 To the best of your knowledge, what are the potential consequences, if any, of having high LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol? Please select all that apply. Higher risk of…

Not Sure

UK 18%

France 14%

Germany 20%

Italy 16%

Spain 11%

Belgium 17%

Netherlands 24%

Denmark 25%

Norway 21%

Sweden 31%

Finland 15%

Japan 25%

Potential Consequences of Having High LDL, Higher Risk of…

Not sure

None

Other

Breaking bones

Cancer

Erectile dysfunction in men

Being hospitalized

Dying young

Being overweight

Stroke

Arterial disease

Heart attack

20%

1%

2%

2%

7%

10%

21%

26%

31%

48%

52%

63%

Global Total

Detailed FindingsKnowledge: Causes and Symptoms

31

About half of adults note weight and diet as factors that have the greatest impact on LDL cholesterol levels, fewer noting the impact of family history

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q805 As far as you know, which of the following factors, if any, have the greatest impact on one’s LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol levels? Please select all that apply.

Family History of Heart Disease

UK 35%

France 44%

Germany 17%

Italy 29%

Spain 34%

Belgium 40%

Netherlands 42%

Denmark 26%

Norway 35%

Sweden 24%

Finland 36%

Japan 13%

Factors that have the Greatest Impact on LDL Cholesterol Levels

Not sure

Other

Gender (male/female)

Medications

Diabetes

Age

Exercise

Family history of heart disease (genetics)

High blood pressure

High alcohol intake

Cigarette smoking

Diet

Weight

18%

2%

8%

13%

23%

25%

29%

31%

32%

35%

35%

52%

52%

Global Total

32

Not sure

None - there are no symptoms associated with high LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol

Other

Coughing

Dementia

Chest pain

Difficulty breathing

Weight gain

Fatigue

35%

22%

3%

3%

4%

14%

15%

29%

29%

Global Total

Strong minority of adults are not sure of any symptoms of high LDL cholesterol, especially those in Denmark, Norway, Sweden, and Japan

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q800 As far as you know, which of the following, if any, are symptoms of high LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol? Please select all that apply.

Not Sure

UK 36%

France 20%

Germany 37%

Italy 32%

Spain 26%

Belgium 26%

Netherlands 32%

Denmark 45%

Norway 41%

Sweden 49%

Finland 34%

Japan 38%

Symptoms of High LDL Cholesterol

Detailed FindingsKnowledge: Diagnosis

34

Not sure

Other

X-ray

MRI

Check weight

Check blood pressure

Blood test

14%

1%

1%

1%

5%

8%

81%

Global Total

Majority of adults are aware blood tests can be used to measure LDL cholesterol

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q825 As far as you know, how is LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol measured?

Blood Test

UK 77%

France 89%

Germany 82%

Italy 88%

Spain 89%

Belgium 85%

Netherlands 78%

Denmark 79%

Norway 76%

Sweden 67%

Finland 91%

Japan 77%

How LDL Cholesterol is Measured

35

Only 10% of adults are aware adults over 40 should aim for their LDL cholesterol to be below 2.8 mmol/L; nearly 6 in 10 are not sure

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q830 What level should adults over 40 aim for their LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol to be below?

Not Sure

UK 61%

France 64%

Germany 66%

Italy 45%

Spain 37%

Belgium 62%

Netherlands 65%

Denmark 69%

Norway 61%

Sweden 75%

Finland 37%

Japan 61%

Level Adults over 40 should Aim for their LDL Cholesterol to be Below

Not sure

Below 500 mg/dL (27.7 mmol/l)





59%

1%

9%

16%

10%

5%

Global Total

36

Not sure

Never

Once every 10 to 15 years


Once a year

Once every 1 to 2 months

Once a day

16%

1%

1%

13%

57%

10%

1%

Global Total

Less than 1 in 6 are aware adults should be screened for high LDL cholesterol once every 2 to 5 years; those in Finland are most likely to answer correctly

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q820 On average, how often should adults be screened for high LDL (or “bad”) cholesterol?

How Often Should Adults be Screened for High LDL Cholesterol


UK 16%

France 14%

Germany 10%

Italy 5%

Spain 3%

Belgium 10%

Netherlands 13%

Denmark 17%

Norway 15%

Sweden 19%

Finland 30%

Japan 2%

Detailed FindingsKnowledge: Action and Management

38

89% 92% 88% 88% 92% 92% 90% 88% 86% 85% 87% 89% 86%

Global To-tal


Denmark Norway Sweden Finland Japan3% 2% 3% 3% 3% 4% 2% 3% 2% 4% 3% 3% 3%9% 6% 9% 9% 6% 4% 7% 9% 12% 12% 10% 8% 11%

45% 50%49% 53%

35%23%

51% 45% 41% 40% 45% 54%59%

43% 42% 39% 35%

56%69%

40% 43% 44% 44% 43%35%

28%


About 9 in 10 agree it is important for people to know whether or not they have high LDL cholesterol


It is important that people know whether or not they have high LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol.

Agree

NET

39

Nearly 9 in 10 adults believe people should be doing more to manage their high LDL cholesterol…


Global To-tal



52% 56%61% 57%

41%33%

58% 52% 50% 45% 49%56%

64%

37% 37%27% 31%

49%58%

33% 36% 34% 38% 39%32%

23%


88% 93% 88% 88% 90% 91% 91% 88% 84% 83% 88% 88% 87%

Agree

NET

People should be doing more to manage their high LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol.

40

63% 64% 62% 60% 49% 50% 61% 64% 64% 68% 71% 73% 71%

Global To-tal


Denmark Norway Sweden Finland Japan7% 3% 4% 7% 13% 17%

6% 7% 7% 6% 6% 4% 3%

30% 32% 34% 33%

38% 33%

33% 30% 29% 26% 23% 23% 26%

50% 53% 53% 49%38% 38%

50% 52% 48% 50% 51% 59%61%

13% 11% 10% 11% 11% 12% 10% 11% 16% 18% 20% 15% 10%


…Yet nearly 2 in 3 believe managing high blood pressure is generally more important than managing high LDL cholesterol


Managing high blood pressure is generally more important than managing high LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol.

Agree

NET

41

89% 93% 91% 87% 92% 90% 90% 89% 88% 86% 89% 90% 86%

Global To-tal



47% 52% 51%60%

37% 30%

51% 47% 49%34% 46% 49%

59%

42% 40% 40%27%

54% 60%

39% 42% 40%52%

43% 41%27%


The majority of adults feel managing high LDL cholesterol with diet is important


Managing high LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol with diet is important.

Agree

NET

42

About 9 in 10 adults have never had their cholesterol levels tested, or are not sure of their most recent test results…

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142)Q905 At the most recent time you were tested, what were your numbers for each of the following types of cholesterol?

8%

61%

31%

LDL cholesterol

■ Entered a number ■ Not sure/Don't recall ■ I have never had my cholesterol levels tested

7%

62%

31%

HDL cholesterol

10%

59%

31%

Total cholesterol

Global Total

Most Recent Cholesterol Levels

Mean: 3.5Median: 3

Mean: 5.2Median: 5

Mean: 2.3Median: 2

43

57% 70% 76% 46% 49% 54% 63% 61% 53% 60% 64% 37% 46%

Global To-tal



12% 6% 2%13% 19% 21%

9% 11% 12% 13% 12%20%

11%

31%

24%22%

42% 32% 25%

28% 28%34% 27% 24%

44%

43%

44%

51% 59%

37%35% 38% 51% 47% 38% 46% 49%

30%41%

13% 19% 17%9% 14% 16% 13% 13% 15% 14% 15%

7% 5%


…And more than half agree that there is not clear information available on how people should manage their LDL cholesterol


There isn't clear information available on how people should manage their LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol.

Agree

NET

Detailed FindingsFamilial Hypercholesterolemia:Knowledge and Impact

45

Global To-tal



63%73%

41%

63%

42%54% 58%

65%80%

62%77% 77%

59%

25%19%

43%

26%

38%

32% 21%21%

15%

24%

16% 13%

33%

9% 7%12% 9%

15%12%

16%10%

4%9%

5% 6% 6%3% 2% 4% 3% 6% 2% 5% 4% 2% 4% 2% 4% 3%

Very familiar Somewhat familiar Heard of it, but not familiar Never heard of it

Familiarity with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is very low, though slightly higher among adults in France, Italy, and Spain

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q835 How familiar are you with familial hypercholesterolemia?

Familiarity with Familial Hypercholesterolemia

37% 27% 59% 37% 58% 46% 42% 35% 20% 38% 23% 23% 41%

12% 8% 16% 12% 20% 14% 21% 14% 6% 13% 7% 10% 9%

At least heard

of (NET)

Very/ somewhat

familiar (NET)

46

Though strong minority are aware a blood test can determine if someone has FH, far fewer are aware of genetic testing

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q840 How can you tell if someone has familial hypercholesterolemia? Please select all that apply.

Blood Test

UK 35%

France 66%

Germany 44%

Italy 54%

Spain 46%

Belgium 53%

Netherlands 33%

Denmark 30%

Norway 41%

Sweden 33%

Finland 25%

Japan 47%

How to Tell if Someone Has Familial Hypercholesterolemia

Not sure

There are visible signs

Genetic test

Blood test

45%

4%

23%

42%

Global Total

47

3 in 5 are unsure of the result of familial hypercholesterolemia, only about 1 in 3 correctly identify very high LDL cholesterol as the result

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007)Q845 The result of familial hypercholesterolemia is:

36%

4%

60%

Global Total

Very high LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol levels

Very low LDL (or ''bad'') cholesterol levels

Not sure

Not Sure

UK 69%

France 45%

Germany 62%

Italy 49%

Spain 43%

Belgium 54%

Netherlands 70%

Denmark 72%

Norway 62%

Sweden 76%

Finland 68%

Japan 53%

Result of Familial Hypercholesterolemia

48

Only 22% realize that there is a 50% chance of a child inheriting the condition if a parent has FH; most are not sure

BASE: ALL QUALIFIED RESPONDENTS: Global Total (n=12142); UK (n=1051); France (n=1033); Germany (n=1006); Italy (n=1006); Spain (n=1036); Belgium (n=1001); Netherlands (n=1000); Denmark (n=1001); Norway (n=1000); Sweden (n=1000); Finland (n=1001); Japan (n=1007) Q850 If someone has familial hypercholesterolemia, what is the likelihood of their children inheriting the condition?

9%

22%

6%1%

61%

Global Total

25% 50%

75% 100%

Not sure

Not Sure

UK 68%

France 51%

Germany 55%

Italy 53%

Spain 59%

Belgium 61%

Netherlands 59%

Denmark 76%

Norway 56%

Sweden 72%

Finland 66%

Japan 63%

Likelihood of a Child Inheriting Familial Hypercholesterolemia if a Parent has it

Appendix:Demographics

50

Demographics

GenderGloba

l Total

UKFranc

eGerman

yItaly

Spain

Belgium

Netherlands

Denmark

NorwaySwede

nFinlan

dJapan

n= 12142 1051 1033 1006 1006 1036 1001 1000 1001 1000 1000 1001 1007

Male 49% 49% 47% 49% 46% 49% 49% 49% 48% 50% 49% 48% 48%

Female 51% 51% 53% 51% 54% 51% 51% 51% 52% 50% 51% 52% 52%

AgeGloba

l Total

UKFranc

eGerman

yItaly

Spain

Belgium

Netherlands

Denmark

NorwaySwede

nFinlan

dJapan

n= 12142 1051 1033 1006 1006 1036 1001 1000 1001 1000 1000 1001 1007

25 - 3418% 19% 17% 16% 16% 18% 18% 17% 16% 20% 19% 18% 15%

35 - 4419% 18% 19% 16% 20% 25% 19% 18% 19% 21% 18% 17% 19%

45 - 5420% 21% 20% 22% 22% 22% 20% 21% 21% 19% 19% 19% 17%

55 - 6417% 17% 18% 18% 16% 17% 18% 18% 18% 17% 17% 19% 17%

65+26% 25% 26% 27% 27% 17% 25% 25% 27% 23% 28% 28% 33%

MEAN50.9 51.0 50.8 51.2 51.0 48.0 50.8 51.0 51.5 49.5 51.4 51.4 53.0

MEDIAN51 51 52 53 51 47 52 52 51 48 52 53 54

Date post:	19-Jan-2016
Category:	Documents
Upload:	maude-smith
View:	214 times
Download:	0 times

Think Again About Cholesterol: A survey among adults ages 25 + in 12 countries Prepared by: Harris...

Documents