Clinical investigations have established that an aggressive approach to lowering cholesterol levels in coronary heart disease patients is warranted. This article describes optimal goals and discusses the role of diet, exercise, and medication in plasma lipids management. (IAH)

Gymnastics coaches may place undue emphasis on thinness. Of the 42 gymnasts in this study, 26 reported using some form of pathogenic behavior to lose weight. The implications of the demands on gymnasts and the additional social pressure to maintain exceptional thinness are discussed. (JD)

Though leanness in athletes is often a natural state, it can pose long-term liability to some athletes' performance and/or health. The physician must determine when leanness is reason for clinical concern. Athletes who do not eat enough to sustain training must either reduce the exercise load or increase nutritional intake. (Author/SM)