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8 (a) LDL cholesterol is a type of cholesterol which increases the risk of heart disease - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 8 - 2019 - Paper 1
Question 8
8 (a) LDL cholesterol is a type of cholesterol which increases the risk of heart disease. Statins are drugs used to reduce LDL cholesterol levels. Figure 12 shows t... show full transcript
Worked Solution & Example Answer:8 (a) LDL cholesterol is a type of cholesterol which increases the risk of heart disease - Edexcel - GCSE Biology - Question 8 - 2019 - Paper 1
Step 1
Describe the effect of statins on LDL cholesterol levels in the blood.
Answer
The graph indicates that LDL cholesterol levels decrease after starting the statin medication in February. Initially, there is a significant drop in LDL cholesterol levels, suggesting that statins effectively lower these levels. After discontinuation in June, there is a noticeable increase in LDL cholesterol, implying that the absence of medication reverses these effects.
Step 2
Use evidence from the graph to explain why statins are usually prescribed as life-long medication.
Answer
The graph shows that LDL cholesterol levels rise significantly after stopping statins, indicating that the cholesterol-lowering effect is not permanent. Therefore, to maintain low levels of LDL cholesterol and reduce the risk of heart disease, continuous use of statins is necessary. This evidence demonstrates that ongoing medication is pivotal for managing cholesterol levels effectively.
Step 3
Step 4
Explain how gonorrhoea is transmitted and how the number of people infected can be reduced.
Answer
Gonorrhoea is transmitted through sexual contact with an infected individual. The graph indicates a rising trend in diagnosed cases over the years, emphasizing the need for effective education about safe sexual practices, regular testing, and partnering with healthcare providers. To reduce infection rates, public health campaigns should promote safe sex, including the use of condoms, and increase access to testing and treatment services.