Within our network, we think locally, act globally. FHSC supports national coordinating centers in their efforts to implement tailored treatment strategies aligned with their country’s unique requirements, all with the goal of lessening the global burden associated with FH. It’s worth noting that each year, we present updates and new findings from these initiatives. During FH Week, we aim to spotlight the successful activities and publications that emerge from these ongoing activities.
Here you can find out more about FH-related national activities and recent developments:
Greece
The Hellenic Familial Hypercholesterolemia Registry (HELLAS-FH) was initially established in 2016 under the patronage of the Hellenic Atherosclerosis Society. It is a nationwide initiative to systematically study, diagnose, and improve care for individuals with familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). The registry has continuously expanded and now encompasses 26 centers in seven major Greek cities and has recruited almost 4,000 patients representing almost 10% of Greece’s estimated FH population.
HELLAS-FH has entered a new phase of strategic growth and sustained engagement. Several new sites were incorporated in the last year to further expand national coverage and recruit new patients. Meanwhile, the registry has focused attention upon follow-up data and now more than 1,260 patients are now longitudinally tracked enabling dynamic, real-world insights into FH care across Greece. Ongoing efforts actively invite new centers to join, fostering inclusivity and ensuring broader availability to diagnosis and treatment.
The registry has also had a strong academic and clinical presence. HELLAS-FH representatives regularly participate in national and international congresses, raising awareness among healthcare professionals and patients. In addition, the team has participated in dedicated meetings with FH patient representatives to strengthen the patient voice and tailor outreach efforts. These activities reflect the registry’s dual mission of scientific excellence and public health advocacy.
The scientific output of HELLAS-FH is impressive with more than a dozen peer-reviewed articles spanning major subjects like LDL-C target attainment, cardiovascular burden, and metabolic comorbidities. Three recent publications in 2024–2025 explored novel associations between FH and hepatic parameters as well as the role of triglycerides and hypertension in atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease:
- Boutari C. et al. The effect of lipid-lowering treatment on indices of MASLD in familial hypercholesterolemia patients. J Cardiovasc Med. 2024. (doi: 10.1016/j.clnu.2024.10.020)
- Anagnostis P. et al. Exploring the Correlation Between Triglyceride Levels and Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease in Adults with FH. J Clin Lipidol. 2025. (doi: 10.1016/j.jacl.2024.12.017)
- Antza C and Rizos CV. et al. Beyond Lipid Levels: Unraveling the Hypertensive Factor in Familial Hypercholesterolemia. The HELLAS-FH registry. J Hum Hypertens (2025) (provisionally accepted)
Beyond research, the registry has advanced patient and clinician education. The official website (www.hellasfh.gr), social media accounts (@hellasfh on X and Hellas FH on Facebook), have aided in raising public and professional awareness and encouraging earlier diagnosis and optimal care pathways. HELLAS-FH also engages with health authorities to inform policy and strengthen national cardiovascular prevention strategies.
As FH Awareness Week is celebrated, the importance of early detection and timely treatment is underscored as life changing. Turning awareness into action can lead to a lasting impact for future generations. The HELLAS-FH registry remains committed to advancing equitable care, reducing cardiovascular risk, and improving the lives of individuals with FH.
