Based on epidemiologic and clinical evidence, the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel has identified low-density lipoprotein cholesterol as the primary target for lipid intervention to promote the reduction of high cholesterol through increased awareness and aggressive management of cardiovascular risk factors. These guidelines provide the basis for management of multiple risk factors and applied intervention using diet, exercise, and drug therapy to lower cholesterol levels. Data from primary- and secondary-prevention trials strongly support the rationale for aggressive therapy with 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl coenzyme A reductase inhibitors (statins) to significantly reduce morbidity and mortality from coronary heart disease.