WASHINGTON (AP) - Doctors should be more aggressive in monitoring and treating their patients' cholesterol levels, an American medical panel recommended yesterday.

A recent survey showed that only 50 per cent of U.S. doctors were treating patients with high cholesterol levels by modifying diets, and only 24 per cent used drug treatment to lower blood fats, the panel said.

Studies indicate eating foods low in cholesterol and other fats, exercise and, in more severe cases, using cholesterol-lowering drugs can lower the risks of heart disease.