The Dutch Heart Foundation and LEEFH sign long-term agreement

Of the family members who test positive in the FH (Familial Hypercholesterolemia) family study, 50% are 18 years of age or younger.

This is one of the main reasons why the Dutch Heart Foundation and LEEFH have been working together for many years. They have signed a new cooperation agreement for the period 2025–2027 (including an intention for 2028–2030). With the support of the Heart Foundation, LEEFH can conduct more family research on FH. LEEFH does this in a network collaboration with 38 hospitals (known as LEEFH centers).

Hereditary disorder

FH is a hereditary condition that leads to elevated cholesterol levels from an early age. This leads to arteriosclerosis, which greatly increases the risk of cardiovascular disease and premature death. If FH is discovered in the family, family screening begins and family members are tested for the mutation found. FH is easily treatable, and early detection of FH can prevent cardiovascular disease in later life.

For the Dutch Heart Foundation, "Early detection" is one of the seven ambitions set out in the Heart and Vascular Agenda.