Dr. Paula Brauer described her 2-year CFDR-funded study, which has helped to identify how dietitians can best apply their skills and knowledge in the fight against a major risk factor for heart disease. She outlined how her team developed a consensus-based diet care map to define recommended practices for dealing with high blood cholesterol.

Although the overall goals of nutrition management had been well defined, specific diet treatment strategies were needed. The recommendations are based on the judgement of 39 dietitians, physicians and researchers from a range of practice settings across Canada who participated in a rigorous process to build consensus on appropriate, feasible and relevant dietetic practice in the Canadian health care system, which would be effective in the majority of clients. The care map is intended to be adapted to meet each client's unique needs.

Dr. Brauer's study is extremely relevant to the Foundation, as health system uptake has been identified as a key issue. The results can be used in current practice and in developing studies to measure effectiveness of intervention.

Dyslipidemia
- High cholesterol and triglyceride levels
- Causes cardiovascular disease
- Few signs and no symptoms
- Prevalent: 16-18% adults have high levels (>6.2 mmol/L)

Health system uptake identified as one key issue -> Leading edge study to define feasible and recommended practice
- rigorous and inclusive process
- Ready to be used: current practice, effectiveness studies