Legacy and Outlook of LipidSpin

LipidSpin is a journal filled with current, relevant, evidence-based information dedicated to lipid science and cardiovascular disease prevention, and is specifically directed towards meeting fundamental educational needs of the membership of the NLA. This year, we celebrate the journal’s 22nd birthday. Yes, LipidSpin is older than the NLA itself! Historically, the Southeast Lipid Association (SELA), whose existence predated the National Lipid Association, recognized the need for regular communication with its members. The Board of Directors envisioned a quarterly newsletter featuring the clinical perspectives of our members, discussion of relevant clinical trials, practical pearls of wisdom, and news and meeting announcements. Edited by Diane Becker, ScD, MPH, RN, Vera A. Bittner, MD, MSPH, FNLA, and James M. McKenney, PharmD, FNLA, the first edition of LipidSpin was published by SELA in March of 2000.

After the NLA was established, the newsletter grew, matured, and formed into the journal members now receive in their mailboxes three times a year. Despite LipidSpin looking different, many of the components from the 2000 newsletter can be seen in the 2022 journals. Although not a ‘peer-reviewed’ journal, this publication is thoughtful, peer-evaluated, and provides NLA membership with useful and practical information to enhance patient care in the realm of cardiovascular disease prevention. As the current editors of LipidSpin, we view LipidSpin as an excellent opportunity for ‘junior’ clinicians and scientists to begin or grow their publication experience and be mentored in the writing and publication process  by more ‘senior’ NLA members. Although firmly rooted in mainstream lipid science, the articles in LipidSpin reflect ideas that may be immediately implemented in clinical practice. Further, the articles are interdisciplinary in nature, with appeal to physicians, advanced practice clinicians, pharmacists and registered dietician nutritionists alike.

We intentionally endeavor to engage the president and president-elect of the sponsoring chapters for each edition of the journal to select a theme, identify topics within that scope which will be of specific relevance, and then request authorship of the articles that will enhance the knowledge and expertise of the readership.