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.
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.
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.
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