How often should you get your cholesterol checked. What happens during a cholesterol test. Why are cholesterol numbers important for your overall health. How can you prepare for a cholesterol test. What do optimal blood cholesterol levels look like.

The Importance of Cholesterol Testing

Cholesterol testing plays a crucial role in maintaining heart health and preventing cardiovascular diseases. According to recent statistics, a significant portion of the U.S. population has high or borderline high cholesterol levels. From 2017 to 2020, approximately 86.4 million adults aged 20 or older in the United States had total cholesterol levels equal to or greater than 200 mg/dL, which is considered high or borderline high.

Even more concerning is the fact that about one in five adolescents had unhealthy cholesterol measurements between 2009 and 2016. These numbers underscore the importance of regular cholesterol testing, as high cholesterol often has no symptoms, leaving many people unaware of their condition.

Who Needs Cholesterol Testing?

Cholesterol testing is recommended for people of all ages, including children and adolescents. Here are some guidelines for cholesterol testing:

• Most healthy adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years.
• Children and adolescents should be tested at least once between ages 9 and 11, and again between ages 17 and 21.
• People with heart disease, diabetes, or a family history of high cholesterol may need more frequent testing.
• Children with obesity or diabetes may require more frequent screening.

Understanding the Cholesterol Test Process

A cholesterol test, also known as a lipid profile, is a simple blood test that measures various types of lipids in your blood. The test typically checks for:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol
• Triglycerides
• Total cholesterol

Is fasting required before a cholesterol test? In most cases, you may need to fast for 8 to 12 hours before the test. However, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions, as some newer tests may not require fasting.

Interpreting Cholesterol Test Results

Understanding your cholesterol numbers is crucial for assessing your overall cardiovascular health. However, these numbers are just one part of the equation. Healthcare professionals consider various factors when interpreting cholesterol test results, including:

• Family history
• Age and sex
• Lifestyle factors (e.g., smoking)
• Other health conditions (comorbidities)
• Blood pressure treatment status

In some cases, healthcare providers may recommend additional tests, such as a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan, to better understand your cardiovascular risk and determine the most appropriate cholesterol management strategy.

The Role of Different Cholesterol Types

Understanding the different types of cholesterol and their roles in your body is essential for managing your heart health effectively.

LDL Cholesterol: The “Bad” Cholesterol

Why is LDL cholesterol considered “bad”? LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, increasing your risk of heart disease and stroke. Managing LDL cholesterol levels is a primary focus of cholesterol management strategies.

HDL Cholesterol: The “Good” Cholesterol

HDL cholesterol is known as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. How can you increase your HDL cholesterol levels? Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and avoiding tobacco use are some ways to boost your HDL cholesterol.

Triglycerides: Another Important Lipid

Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood that your body uses for energy. High levels of triglycerides, especially when combined with high LDL or low HDL cholesterol, can increase your risk of heart attack and stroke. What factors can affect triglyceride levels? Diet, weight, physical activity, alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions can all influence triglyceride levels.

Cholesterol Management Strategies

Based on your cholesterol test results and overall cardiovascular risk assessment, your healthcare team may recommend various strategies to manage your cholesterol levels and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.

Lifestyle Modifications

Lifestyle changes are often the first line of defense in managing cholesterol levels. Some effective strategies include:

• Adopting a heart-healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
• Increasing physical activity and exercise
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Quitting smoking
• Limiting alcohol consumption

Medication Options

In some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient to manage cholesterol levels. Your healthcare provider may recommend cholesterol-lowering medications, such as:

• Statins
• Bile acid sequestrants
• Cholesterol absorption inhibitors
• PCSK9 inhibitors

The choice of medication depends on various factors, including your overall health, cholesterol levels, and cardiovascular risk factors.

Cholesterol Management for Special Populations

Certain groups may require special considerations when it comes to cholesterol management. These include:

Children and Adolescents

Early detection and management of high cholesterol in children and adolescents are crucial for preventing long-term cardiovascular problems. How should cholesterol be managed in younger populations? Guidelines recommend a focus on lifestyle modifications, with medication considered only in severe cases or for those with genetic cholesterol disorders.

Older Adults

Cholesterol management in older adults requires a careful balance between reducing cardiovascular risk and avoiding potential side effects of medications. What factors should be considered when managing cholesterol in older adults? Factors such as overall health status, life expectancy, and potential drug interactions should be taken into account when developing a cholesterol management plan for older individuals.

Pregnant Women

Cholesterol levels naturally increase during pregnancy to support fetal development. How should cholesterol be managed during pregnancy? Most cholesterol-lowering medications are not recommended during pregnancy, and management typically focuses on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.

The Future of Cholesterol Testing and Management

As our understanding of cholesterol and cardiovascular health continues to evolve, new approaches to testing and management are emerging. Some exciting developments include:

• Advanced lipid testing techniques that provide more detailed information about cholesterol particle size and number
• Genetic testing to identify individuals at high risk for inherited cholesterol disorders
• Novel cholesterol-lowering therapies targeting specific aspects of lipid metabolism
• Personalized medicine approaches that tailor cholesterol management strategies to an individual’s unique genetic and metabolic profile

These advancements hold promise for more effective and personalized cholesterol management in the future, potentially leading to better cardiovascular outcomes for millions of people worldwide.

The Broader Impact of Cholesterol Management on Public Health

Effective cholesterol management strategies have far-reaching implications for public health. By reducing the burden of cardiovascular disease, we can:

• Decrease healthcare costs associated with heart disease and stroke
• Improve quality of life for millions of individuals
• Reduce the economic impact of lost productivity due to cardiovascular-related illnesses
• Promote healthier communities through increased awareness and prevention efforts

How can public health initiatives support cholesterol management efforts? Public health campaigns focusing on education, early screening, and promoting heart-healthy lifestyles can play a crucial role in reducing the prevalence of high cholesterol and its associated health risks.

In conclusion, understanding and managing cholesterol levels is a critical aspect of maintaining cardiovascular health. Regular cholesterol testing, coupled with appropriate lifestyle modifications and medical interventions when necessary, can significantly reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. By staying informed about your cholesterol levels and working closely with your healthcare team, you can take proactive steps to protect your heart and overall well-being.

Get a Cholesterol Test | cdc.gov

From 2017 to 2020, 86.4 million U.S. adults age 20 or older had high or borderline high cholesterol (a total cholesterol level greater than or equal to 200 mg/dL).¹

From 2009 to 2016, about 1 in 5 adolescents had an unhealthy cholesterol measurement.²

Because high cholesterol doesn’t have symptoms, many people don’t know their levels are high.

The only way to know whether you have high cholesterol is to get your cholesterol checked. Your health care team can do a simple blood test, called a “lipid profile,” to measure your cholesterol levels.

Who needs to get their cholesterol checked and when?

Many people have never had their cholesterol checked, so they don’t know whether they are at risk.

Talk with your health care team about your health history and how often you need to have your cholesterol checked. Cholesterol should be checked starting early in life—even children and adolescents should have their cholesterol checked.

• Most healthy adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years.
• Some people, such as people who have heart disease, diabetes, or a family history of high cholesterol, need to get their cholesterol checked more often.
• Children and adolescents should have their cholesterol checked at least once between ages 9 and 11 and again between ages 17 and 21.²
• Children who have obesity or diabetes may need to be screened for high cholesterol more often.

The 2018 ACC/AHA Guidelines recommend that cholesterol management be based on a person’s lifetime cardiovascular risk, whether a person is 45 to 75 years of age, has diabetes, and has other factors.²  

Health care professionals calculate a person’s lifetime cardiovascular risk by considering

• any other health conditions the person may have at the same time (comorbidities)
• whether the person is being treated for high blood pressure
• whether the person smokes
• any other factors that may increase cardiovascular risk

Your cholesterol management and treatment decisions should be made in collaboration with a health care professional.

What happens during a cholesterol test?

The cholesterol test, or screening, requires a simple blood draw. The cholesterol test checks your levels of:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) or “bad” cholesterol. Having high levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries and result in heart disease or stroke.
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) or “good” cholesterol. HDL is known as “good” cholesterol because high levels can lower your risk of heart disease and stroke.
• Triglycerides, a type of fat in your blood that your body uses for energy. The combination of high levels of triglycerides with low HDL cholesterol or high LDL cholesterol levels can increase your risk for heart attack and stroke.
• Total cholesterol, the total amount of cholesterol in your blood based on your HDL, LDL, and triglycerides numbers.

Learn more about LDL and HDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

What do I need to know before getting a cholesterol test?

You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for 8 to 12 hours before your cholesterol test. Be sure to ask your doctor how to prepare for the test.

How do blood cholesterol numbers affect me?

Your cholesterol numbers are important, but they are just part of your overall health. Learn more about what optimal blood cholesterol numbers are.

Your health care team will look at your cholesterol numbers, along with your family history, age, sex, and other parts of your lifestyle or health, such as smoking, that could increase your risk for high cholesterol.

Additionally, your health care team may order a coronary artery calcium (CAC) scan to help understand your risk and determine the best way to manage your cholesterol levels.²

This complete picture helps your health care team determine whether you should take steps, such as lifestyle changes or cholesterol-lowering medicine, to lower your risk for heart disease and stroke.

More Information

CDC

• About Heart Disease
• About Stroke
• Aortic Aneurysm
• About High Blood Pressure

Other organizations

• MedlinePlus: Cholesterol
• American Heart Association (AHA):
  • Cholesterol
  • What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean
• National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI): High Blood Cholesterol—What You Need to Know

References

1. Tsao CW, Aday AW, Almarzooq ZI, Beaton AZ, Bittencourt MS, Boehme AK, et al. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2023 Update: A Report From the American Heart Association. Circulation. 2023;147:e93–e621.
2. Perak AM, Ning H, Kit BK, et al. Trends in Levels of Lipids and Apolipoprotein B in US Youths Aged 6 to 19 Years, 1999-2016. JAMA. 2019;321(19):1895-1905.
3. Grundy SM, Stone NJ, Bailey AL, Beam C, Birtcher KK, Blumenthal RS, et al. 2018 ACC/AHA/AACVPR/AAPA/ ABC/ACPM/ADA/AGS/APhA/ASPC/NLA/PCNA guideline on the management of blood cholesterol: a report of the American College of Cardiology Foundation/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Circulation. 2018;0:CIR.0000000000000625.

Cholesterol Levels: MedlinePlus Medical Test

What is a Cholesterol Test?

A cholesterol test is a blood test that measures the amount of cholesterol and certain fats in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that’s found in your blood and every cell of your body. You need some cholesterol to keep your cells and organs healthy.

Your liver makes all the cholesterol your body needs. But you can also get cholesterol from the foods you eat, especially meat, eggs, poultry, and dairy products. Foods that are high in dietary fat can also make your liver produce more cholesterol.

There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol.

Too much LDL cholesterol in your blood increases your risk for coronary artery disease and other heart diseases. High LDL levels can cause the buildup of a sticky substance called plaque in your arteries. Over time, plaque can narrow your arteries or fully block them. When this happens, parts of your body don’t get enough blood:

• If the blood flow to the heart is blocked, it can cause a heart attack.
• If the blood flow to the brain is blocked, it can cause a stroke.
• If the blood flow to the arms or legs is blocked, it can cause peripheral artery disease.

Other names for a cholesterol test: Lipid profile, Lipid panel

What is it used for?

A cholesterol test gives you and your health care provider important information about your risk of developing heart disease. If your test shows you have high cholesterol, you can take steps to lower it. This may decrease your risk of developing heart problems in the future. A cholesterol test measures:

• LDL levels. Also known as the “bad” cholesterol, LDL is the main source of blockages in the arteries.
• HDL levels. Considered the “good” cholesterol, HDL helps get rid of “bad” LDL cholesterol.
• Total cholesterol. The combined amount of LDL cholesterol and HDL cholesterol in your blood.
• Triglyceride levels. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood. Some studies show that high levels of triglycerides may increase the risk of heart disease, especially in women.
• VLDL levels. Very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) is another type of “bad” cholesterol. High VLDL levels have been linked to plaque buildup in the arteries. VLDL isn’t usually included in routine cholesterol tests because it’s difficult to measure. About half of VLDL is triglycerides, so your VLDL level can be estimated as a percentage of your triglyceride level.

Why do I need a cholesterol test?

Your provider may order a cholesterol test as part of a routine exam. You may also have a cholesterol test if you have a family history of heart disease or if your risk for heart problems is high because of:

• High blood pressure
• Type 2 diabetes
• Smoking
• Excess weight or obesity
• Lack of physical activity
• A diet high in saturated fat

Your age may also be a factor, because your risk for heart disease increases as you get older.

What happens during a cholesterol test?

A health care professional will take a blood sample from a vein in your arm, using a small needle. After the needle is inserted, a small amount of blood will be collected into a test tube or vial. You may feel a little sting when the needle goes in or out. This usually takes less than five minutes.

You may be able to use an at-home kit to check your cholesterol levels. Your kit will include a device to prick your finger to collect a drop of blood for testing. Be sure to follow the kit instructions carefully. Also, be sure to tell your provider if your at-home test shows that your total cholesterol level is higher than 200 mg/dl.

Will I need to do anything to prepare for the test?

You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for 9 to 12 hours before your blood cholesterol test. That’s why the tests are often done in the morning. Your provider will let you know if you need to fast and if there are any other special instructions.

Are there any risks to the test?

There is very little risk to having a blood test. You may experience slight pain or bruising at the spot where the needle was put in, but most symptoms go away quickly.

What do the results mean?

Cholesterol is usually measured in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood. The information below will help you understand what your test results mean. In general, low LDL levels and high HDL cholesterol levels are good for heart health.

The LDL listed on your results may say “calculated.” This means that your LDL level is an estimate based on your total cholesterol, HDL, and triglycerides. Your LDL level may also be measured “directly” from your blood sample. Either way, you want your LDL number to be low.

A healthy cholesterol level for you may depend on your age, family history, lifestyle, and other risk factors for heart disease, such as high triglyceride levels. Your provider can explain what’s right for you.

Learn more about laboratory tests, reference ranges, and understanding results.

Is there anything else I need to know about my cholesterol levels?

High cholesterol can lead to heart disease, the number one cause of death in the United States. You can’t change some risk factors for high cholesterol, such as age and your genes. But there are actions you can take to lower your LDL levels and reduce your risk, including:

• Eating a healthy diet. Reducing or avoiding foods high in saturated fat and cholesterol can help reduce the cholesterol levels in your blood.
• Losing weight. Being overweight can increase your cholesterol and risk for heart disease.
• Staying active. Regular exercise may help lower your LDL (bad) cholesterol levels and raise your HDL (good) cholesterol levels. It may also help you lose weight.

Talk to your provider before making any major change in your diet or exercise routine.

References

1. American Heart Association [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association Inc.; c2022. About Cholesterol; [last reviewed 2020 Nov 6; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/AboutCholesterol/About-Cholesterol_UCM_001220_Article.jsp
2. American Heart Association [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association Inc.; c2022. HDL (Good), LDL (Bad) Cholesterol and Triglycerides; [last reviewed 2020 Nov 6; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/AboutCholesterol/Good-vs-Bad-Cholesterol_UCM_305561_Article.jsp
3. American Heart Association [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association Inc.; c2022. How To Get Your Cholesterol Tested; [last reviewed: 2020 Nov 9; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/how-to-get-your-cholesterol-tested
4. American Heart Association [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association Inc.; c2022. Prevention and Treatment of High Cholesterol; [last reviewed 2020 Nov 11; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 7 screens]. Available from: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/PreventionTreatmentofHighCholesterol/Prevention-and-Treatment-of-High-Cholesterol_UCM_001215_Article.jsp
5. American Heart Association [Internet]. Dallas (TX): American Heart Association Inc.; c2022. What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean; [last reviewed 2020 Nov 6; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: http://www.heart.org/HEARTORG/Conditions/Cholesterol/AboutCholesterol/What-Your-Cholesterol-Levels-Mean_UCM_305562_Article.jsp
6. FDA: US Food and Drug Administration [Internet]. Silver Spring (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Cholesterol; [current as of 2018 Feb 4; cited 2019 Jan 25]; [about 4 screens]. Available from: https://www.fda.gov/medical-devices/home-use-tests/cholesterol
7. Healthfinder.gov. [Internet]. Washington D.C.: Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion; National Health Information Center; Get Your Cholesterol Checked; [updated 2021 Oct 7; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 7 screens]. Available from: https://health.gov/myhealthfinder/topics/doctor-visits/screening-tests/get-your-cholesterol-checked
8. Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; c1998-2022. Cholesterol Test [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cholesterol-test/about/pac-20384601
9. Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; c1998-2022. High Cholesterol [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/symptoms-causes/syc-20350800
10. Mayo Clinic [Internet]. Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research; c1998-2022.VLDL cholesterol: Is it harmful? [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: http://www. mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/expert-answers/vldl-cholesterol/faq-20058275
11. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; High Blood Cholesterol: What You Need to Know; 2001 May [revised 2005 Jun; cited 2017 Jan 26]; [about 6 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/all-publications-and-resources/high-blood-cholesterol-what-you-need-know
12. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Blood Cholesterol: Diagnosis [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 20 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-cholesterol
13. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Blood Cholesterol: Overview [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 4 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-cholesterol
14. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Blood Tests: What Are the Risks of Blood Tests? [cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 5 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-tests
15. National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute [Internet]. Bethesda (MD): U.S. Department of Health and Human Services; Blood Tests: What To Expect with Blood Tests; [cited 2017 Jan 25]; [about 1 screens]. Available from: https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/blood-tests
16. Quest Diagnostics [Internet].Quest Diagnostics; c2000-2022. Test Summary: LDL Cholesterol; [reviewed 2020 Dec; cited 2021 Dec 20]; [about 3 screens]. Available from: https://testdirectory.questdiagnostics.com/test/test-guides/TS_LDL_Cholesterol/ldl-cholesterol?p=td

Total cholesterol

Total cholesterol (cholesterol) is a fat-like substance that the body needs for the normal functioning of cells, digestion of food, and the creation of many hormones. Too much cholesterol (cholesterol) increases the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries, which can block them and cause a heart attack or stroke.

Russian synonyms

Cholesterol, cholesterol

English synonyms

Blood cholesterol, Cholesterol, Chol, Cholesterol total.

Test method

Colorimetric photometric method.

Units

mmol/l (millimoles per litre).

What biomaterial can be used for research?

Venous, capillary blood.

How to properly prepare for an examination?

1. Do not eat for 12 hours before the test.
2. Exclude physical and emotional overexertion 30 minutes before the study.
3. Do not smoke for 30 minutes before the test.

General information about the study

Cholesterol (ChS, cholesterol) is a fat-like substance that is vital for the body. The correct scientific name for this substance is “cholesterol” (the ending “-ol” indicates belonging to alcohols), however, the name “cholesterol” has become widespread in the mass literature, which we will use later in this article. Cholesterol is involved in the formation of cell membranes of all organs and tissues of the body. Based on cholesterol, hormones are created that are involved in the growth, development of the body and the implementation of the reproduction function. Bile acids are formed from cholesterol, which are part of bile, thanks to which fats are absorbed in the intestines.

Cholesterol is insoluble in water, therefore, in order to move around the body, it is “packed” into a protein shell, consisting of special proteins – apolipoproteins. The resulting complex (cholesterol + apolipoprotein) is called lipoprotein. Several types of lipoproteins circulate in the blood, differing in the proportions of their components:

• very low density lipoproteins (VLDL),
• low density lipoproteins (LDL),
• high density lipoproteins (HDL).

LDL-C and VLDL-C are considered “bad” types of cholesterol, as they contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, while HDL-C, on the contrary, is called “good”, since excess amounts of cholesterol are removed by HDL.

The total cholesterol (cholesterol) test measures the total amount of cholesterol (both “bad” and “good”) circulating in the blood as lipoproteins.

The liver produces enough cholesterol for the needs of the body, but part of it comes from food, mainly meat and fatty dairy products. If a person has a genetic predisposition to high cholesterol or eats too much cholesterol-containing food, then the level of cholesterol in the blood can rise and cause harm to the body. Excess amounts of cholesterol are deposited in the walls of blood vessels in the form of plaques, which can restrict the movement of blood through the vessel, and also make the vessels more rigid (atherosclerosis), which significantly increases the risk of heart disease (ischemic disease, heart attack) and stroke.

What is research used for?

• To assess the risk of atherosclerosis and heart problems.
• For the prevention of many diseases.

When is the test ordered?

• At least every 5 years for all adults over 20 years of age (usually part of the routine screening test).
• Together with analyzes for LDL-C, VLDL-C, HDL-C, triglycerides and with the atherogenic coefficient – this is the so-called lipid profile.
• Several times a year if a diet with restricted animal fats and/or cholesterol-lowering medications is prescribed (to check if the person is reaching their target cholesterol level and therefore reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease).
• If one or more risk factors for cardiovascular disease are present in the patient’s lifetime:
  • smoking,
  • certain age period (men over 45, women over 55),
  • high blood pressure (140/90 mmHg and above),
  • elevated cholesterol or cardiovascular disease in other family members (heart attack or stroke in a male relative under 55 years of age or female under 65 years of age),
  • ischemic heart disease,
  • past myocardial infarction or stroke,
  • diabetes mellitus,
  • overweight,
  • alcohol abuse,
  • intake of large amounts of food containing animal fats,
  • low physical activity.
• At 2-10 years of age, a child in whose family someone had heart disease at a young age or high cholesterol.

What do the results mean?

Reference values ​​(cholesterol norm):

The concept of “norm” is not fully applicable in relation to the level of total cholesterol. For different people with a different number of risk factors, the norm of cholesterol will be different. The test for total cholesterol (cholesterol) is used to determine the risk of cardiovascular disease, however, in order to determine this risk for an individual patient most accurately, it is necessary to evaluate all predisposing factors.

According to clinical guidelines, ¹ individual risk is calculated using the Systematic Coronary Risk Evaluation (SCORE) scale.

“Diagnostics and correction of lipid metabolism disorders for the prevention and treatment of atherosclerosis. Russian guidelines, VII revision. 2020″.

“2019 ESC/EAS Guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias: lipid modification to reduce cardiovascular risk”.

Causes of increased total cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia)

Hypercholesterolemia may be the result of a hereditary predisposition (familial hypercholesterolemia) or excessive dietary intake of animal fats. Most people with high cholesterol have some degree of both.

Cholesterol is only one of the risk factors for cardiovascular disease. The overall assessment of this risk is carried out taking into account all parameters, including the presence of cardiovascular diseases in the patient or his relatives, smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, etc. For patients who have these factors, the target levels of total cholesterol are less 4 mmol/l. To more accurately determine the risk of cardiovascular disease, a test for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL cholesterol) is prescribed.

Before prescribing treatment, it is necessary to exclude other causes of increased total cholesterol:

1. cholestasis – bile stasis, which can be caused by liver disease (hepatitis, cirrhosis) or gallstones,
2. chronic inflammation of the kidneys leading to nephrotic syndrome,
3. chronic renal failure,
4. decreased thyroid function (hypothyroidism),
5. poorly treated diabetes mellitus,
6. alcoholism,
7. obesity,
8. cancer of the prostate or pancreas.

Reasons for lowering the level of total cholesterol (hypocholesterolemia)

• Heredity.
• Severe liver disease.
• Oncological diseases of the bone marrow.
• Increased thyroid function (hyperthyroidism).
• Intestinal malabsorption.
• Folic or B ₁₂ – deficiency anemia.
• Generalized burns.
• Tuberculosis.
• Acute diseases, acute infections.
• Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease.

What can influence the result?

Cholesterol concentration may change from time to time, this is normal. A single measurement does not always reflect the usual level, so it may sometimes be necessary to retake the analysis after 1-3 months.

Raise total cholesterol:

• pregnancy (cholesterol test should be taken at least 6 weeks after delivery),
• long fast,
• blood donation in standing position,
• anabolic steroids, androgens, corticosteroids,
• smoking,
• ingestion of food containing animal fats.

Reduces total cholesterol:

• blood donation in the supine position,
• allopurinol, clofibrate, colchicine, antifungals, statins, cholestyramine, erythromycin, estrogens,
• intense physical activity,
• diet high in polyunsaturated fatty acids.

Important notes

• Cholesterol testing should be done when the person is relatively healthy. After an acute illness, heart attack, surgery, you should wait at least 6 weeks before measuring cholesterol.
• In the USA, cholesterol is measured in milligrams per deciliter, in Russia and Europe – in millimoles per liter. The conversion is carried out according to the formula: cholesterol (mg / dl) \u003d cholesterol (mmol / l) × 88.5 or cholesterol (mmol / l) \u003d cholesterol (mg / dl) x 0.0113.

Also recommended

• Triglycerides
• Cholesterol – high density lipoprotein (HDL)
• Cholesterol – low density lipoprotein (LDL)
• Atherogenic index
• Apolipoprotein A1
• Apolipoprotein B

Who orders the examination?

General practitioner, internist, cardiologist.

Cardio test for body weight (BMI) and lipid profile

Risk assessment is used to determine the likelihood of developing certain diseases in the future. Learn about the most important indicators that affect your health and help your doctor assess your risk of heart disease and stroke.

“Renowned scientists have compiled a list of standards – important health indicators that affect the quality of life of patients. It has been proven that a person with indicators “within the normal range” does not form a load on certain organs and systems, lives longer, and it is my duty as a doctor to warn women and men about how much they are at risk of cardiovascular diseases, and how important it is to follow for the main indicators of health!

Shevchenko Alla Mikhailovna,
cardiologist, family doctor

Body mass index (BMI)

Body mass index (BMI) is calculated from your height and weight. The accuracy of BMI in the body depends on factors such as fitness level, muscle mass, bone structure, gender. This means that some people may have a high BMI but not be underweight. However, BMI is a reliable indicator for most people. Therefore, it is used to identify weight problems that can lead to health problems.

Calculate your BMI by entering your height and weight

Height (centimeters)

Weight (kilograms)

Your result: –

Normal

18.5 – 25
kg/m2 9 0003

Blood pressure (BP)

A beating heart pumps blood through blood vessels called arteries and pressurizes them. The higher number (systolic) represents the pressure when your heart is beating. The bottom number (diastolic) represents the pressure when your heart is resting between beats. Your blood pressure can change from minute to minute when you change your position or during physical activity, or when you are under stress or sleeping. High pressure can damage the walls of your arteries. Your doctor will tell you if pressure can cause health problems.

Norm

110 to 70
to 130 to 80
mmHg Art.

Glucose level

The fasting glucose test shows the amount of sugar in the blood. If you have eaten within 8 hours before this test, your glucose level may be falsely elevated. Glucose rises rapidly after a meal but should return to fasting levels within 2 hours. High blood glucose levels can be a sign of diabetes or pre-diabetes.

Norm

4.0-5.9 mmol/l

Lipidogram

In the section “Lipidogram” as the norm, we indicated indicators for patients without cardiovascular disease (CVD) and kidney disease. For patients with CVD, diabetes, or kidney disease, only a physician can determine recommended levels.

Cholesterol

The ratio of total cholesterol to low-density lipoprotein (HDL) shows the potential for blockage of the arteries of the heart. This is how your doctor will determine your risk of coronary heart disease. The ratio can be reduced by increasing good cholesterol and/or decreasing bad cholesterol.

High-density lipoproteins

High-density lipoproteins (HDL or “good cholesterol”) help remove fatty substances that are harmful to your arteries. The higher the concentration of HDL in the blood, the less likely it is to develop coronary heart disease. The amount of HDL cholesterol you have can be increased in several ways, including regular exercise, quitting smoking, and losing weight.

Norm

> 1.68

Low density lipoproteins

Low-density lipoproteins (LDL or so-called “bad cholesterol”) are the main cause of clogged arteries, which can cause heart attack, stroke and circulatory problems. The higher the concentration of LDL, the higher the likelihood of developing these diseases. LDL levels can be reduced by reducing the amount of trans fats and saturated fats in the diet and by eating foods rich in fiber.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides belong to a class of blood fats known as “lipids”. High triglyceride levels can lead to coronary heart disease. High triglyceride levels are more common in people who are overweight, have diabetes, and/or have improper processing of fats. Your triglyceride levels can be reduced by reducing your intake of simple sugars (sweets) and alcohol, and by increasing your physical activity.