cholesterol test

You probably have lots of questions about cholesterol, cardiovascular risk factors and management. Some of the questions you have will be answered here. If you do not find the answers you are looking for, ask your doctor.
Sometimes it's helpful to write the questions down before you see your doctor.

Q I'm under 45. Do I have to worry about cholesterol if I'm young?

A

Being young doesn't necessarily mean you are not at risk for high cholesterol. Take a look at the Screening Criteria to determine whether you have any risk factors for high cholesterol. Also please visit our Cholesterol stories section to find out more.

Q How important is it for me to know my cholesterol levels?

A

Knowing your total cholesterol levels can be useful. The most useful information, however, is the level of your LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. A simple blood test will determine these measurements and give your doctor important information about whether you are at risk for cardiovascular disease.

Q What is LDL cholesterol?

A

Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol is sometimes referred to as "bad" cholesterol. Too much LDL cholesterol may leave deposits (plaque) on the lining of arteries, causing blockages and restricting blood flow to the heart.

Lowering LDL cholesterol levels is an important part of cholesterol management.

Q What is HDL cholesterol?

A

High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol is also sometimes known as "good" cholesterol. HDL cholesterol helps to carry cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver where it is processed and excreted. Higher levels of HDL cholesterol can be beneficial for the heart.

Q What are triglycerides?

A

Triglycerides are fatty substances that are manufactured by the liver. High levels of triglycerides have been connected with low levels of HDL "good" cholesterol. High levels of triglycerides have also been linked to risk factors for cardiovascular disease such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure.

Q What should my LDL cholesterol level be?

A

It is important to discuss with your doctor what your target LDL cholesterol level should be. Lowering your LDL cholesterol level helps to reduce your risk for heart disease and stroke. The recommended LDL cholesterol target level for people at high cardiovascular risk is less than 2.5mmol/L. Your target level may be different. Ask your doctor what is the best target for you.

Q Is there a target cholesterol level I should aim for?

A

Your target cholesterol level is something you and your doctor need to discuss. Target levels are guidelines based on your overall cardiovascular risk and your general health. Your doctor will establish your personal target levels and work with you to design the most effective treatment plan for reaching those levels.

Cholesterol target levels for people at high risk of cardiovascular disease2
HDL cholesterol	greater than 1.0 mmol/L
LDL cholesterol	less than 2.5 mmol/L
Triglycerides	less than 1.5 mmol/L