PHILADELPHIA (CBS) - We call it hyperlipidemia — an elevation of the lipids in the blood that can be linked with cardiac issues down the road.

Over the years we have learned that for many people lifestyle changes, diet and exercise, can make a big difference but for others it may require the use of medications.

Of all the drugs out there, the statins have the most convincing studies to show that there are benefits — especially for high risk patients.

Another group that has been helpful are the Omega-3 fatty acids. These are good especially for those who have trouble taking the statins.

Why is this so important? Put simply, cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in the United States and it has accounted for more than a third of all deaths since 2007. Need I say more?

Reported By Dr. Brian McDonough, KYW Newsradio Medical Editor