The Total Cholesterol Test Explained

The Total Cholesterol Test is a pivotal examination that gauges the presence of cholesterol, a type of fat molecule, in the bloodstream. Excessive cholesterol in the bloodstream can harm arteries, blood vessels, and elevate the risk of stroke, heart attack, and heart disease. Cholesterol is a vital factor when it comes to evaluating heart health for high-risk individuals with previous cardiovascular problems, family history of early-onset heart disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), Diabetes or prediabetes. Cholesterol tests also serve as a valuable tool for monitoring heart health and assessing the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering treatment.

WHY/WHO SHOULD TAKE IT?

As a general guideline, routine blood testing for cholesterol typically commences in adulthood, typically around the age of 35. Total Cholesterol Test is commonly employed in cholesterol screenings, designed to uncover signs of cardiovascular health risks in individuals who haven't exhibited symptoms but have lifestyle related risk factors such as obesity or overweight, smoking, unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle However, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider to determine your risk of high cholesterol.

Know more
The Total Cholesterol Test Explained
Cholesterol comes in various forms, typically categorized as "good"or "bad." The Total Cholesterol Test measures the combined levels of both and thus holds the key to assessing heart health since elevated cholesterol levels pose a significant risk for cardiovascular issues like heart disease and stroke.
WHY/WHO SHOULD TAKE IT?
The Total Cholesterol Test is a pivotal examination that gauges the presence of cholesterol, a type of fat molecule, in the bloodstream. Excessive cholesterol in the bloodstream can harm arteries, blood vessels, and elevate the risk of stroke, heart attack, and heart disease. Cholesterol is a vital factor when it comes to evaluating heart health for high-risk individuals with previous cardiovascular problems, family history of early-onset heart disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), Diabetes or prediabetes. Cholesterol tests also serve as a valuable tool for monitoring heart health and assessing the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering treatment.
WHY/WHO SHOULD TAKE IT?
As a general guideline, routine blood testing for cholesterol typically commences in adulthood, typically around the age of 35. Total Cholesterol Test is commonly employed in cholesterol screenings, designed to uncover signs of cardiovascular health risks in individuals who haven't exhibited symptoms but have lifestyle related risk factors such as obesity or overweight, smoking, unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle However, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider to determine your risk of high cholesterol.
Good vs Bad
The Total Cholesterol Test Explained
Cholesterol comes in various forms, typically categorized as "good"or "bad." The Total Cholesterol Test measures the combined levels of both and thus holds the key to assessing heart health since elevated cholesterol levels pose a significant risk for cardiovascular issues like heart disease and stroke.
WHY/WHO SHOULD TAKE IT?
The Total Cholesterol Test is a pivotal examination that gauges the presence of cholesterol, a type of fat molecule, in the bloodstream. Excessive cholesterol in the bloodstream can harm arteries, blood vessels, and elevate the risk of stroke, heart attack, and heart disease. Cholesterol is a vital factor when it comes to evaluating heart health for high-risk individuals with previous cardiovascular problems, family history of early-onset heart disease, high blood pressure (hypertension), Diabetes or prediabetes. Cholesterol tests also serve as a valuable tool for monitoring heart health and assessing the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering treatment.
WHY/WHO SHOULD TAKE IT?
As a general guideline, routine blood testing for cholesterol typically commences in adulthood, typically around the age of 35. Total Cholesterol Test is commonly employed in cholesterol screenings, designed to uncover signs of cardiovascular health risks in individuals who haven't exhibited symptoms but have lifestyle related risk factors such as obesity or overweight, smoking, unhealthy diet and sedentary lifestyle However, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider to determine your risk of high cholesterol.

WHAT DO YOUR RESULTS MEAN?

Cholesterol levels are expressed in milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL), with the following general reference ranges for total cholesterol:

Normal: Below 200 mg/dL

Borderline High: 200-239 mg/dL

High: 240 mg/dL and above

It's essential to note that total cholesterol alone doesn't provide a complete picture of your cardiovascular risk. The quantities of good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol are integral considerations, which is why a comprehensive lipid panel assesses all aspects. While the primary focus of cholesterol testing is to identify high cholesterol cases, it's also possible to have exceptionally low levels, often linked to underlying health conditions or malnutrition.

Prevention is the key to managing your health and Healthi makes it easy.

Know more