The SCVC Blog

Cardiovascular care news and articles from our expert team

SCVC NEWS – The Surrey Cardiovascular Newsletter

Posted on Monday September 2, 2024 in News

In 2023 the leadership team at SCVC decided that with an estimated 15,000 patients registered since 2006, it was time for us to issue newsletters.
In 2024 we launched a new website
In the last quarter of 2024, we launched an educational social media platform to help keep our patients and referring practitioners up to date on the latest medical developments.
The platform will also be used to announce educational webinars for medical professionals and patients.

It seemed important to spread some of our medically verified opinions to help counter fake or misleading health stories found on the internet.
With over 50 blog articles published, the editorial team had sufficient material of general interest to feature a weekly story by mailshot.

We therefore developed an official mailing list, including an all important ‘unsubscribe’ option, for those that would rather not be sent these notifications.

All patients are invited to join our newsletter mailing list by sending us an email address here.
All newsletters can be downloaded using the links below.

2025

Download issue 5

2024

Download issue 4

Download Issue 3

2023

Download Issue 2

Download Issue 1

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Cholesterol, LDL, and what we learnt from PCSK9 mutations in familial hypercholesterolaemia

PCSK9 binds to LDL receptors and directs them to be destroyed within the cell, rather than allowing them to recycle to the surface. When too much PCSK9 is present, fewer LDL receptors remain available to clear LDL from the blood. The result is simple: LDL levels rise. When that happens, the liver compensates by making even more cholesterol internally. This is why around 90% of the cholesterol in your blood is made by your liver, not absorbed from your diet.

Managing your own Atrial Fibrillation: Taking control of your heart health

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The cardiometabolic clinic

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Dietary Fats: From Villain to Vital Nutrient – Rethinking Fat in a Heart-Healthy Diet

Dietary fats have been wrongly maligned for much of modern nutritional history. But as the science evolves, it's clear that fat – far from being harmful – is a vital macronutrient that supports energy metabolism, hormonal health, brain and heart function, and even weight control.Rather than fearing fat, we should focus on:Avoiding refined carbohydrates and ultra-processed foods. Prioritising whole food sources of fat, including nuts, seeds, dairy, eggs, fish, and healthy oils. Understanding individual needs, especially in those with insulin resistance or carbohydrate sensitivity. Viewing nutrition in context, rather than isolating single nutrients as heroes or villains.The time has come to move beyond fat-phobia and embrace a more nuanced, evidence-based approach to eating. In a balanced, whole-food diet, fat is not the problem — it’s part of the solution.