cholesterol test

High cholesterol can affect any one of us, even those who are relatively young and look and feel fit. That said, not everyone needs to be tested for high cholesterol. There are some groups who are at higher risk of cardiovascular disease than others. The National Heart Foundation of Australia and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand recommend that these individuals be tested regularly for high cholesterol.

Who should have their cholesterol tested?

Everyone is different and only your doctor can tell you if you need a cholesterol test. As a guide, The National Heart Foundation of Australia recommends that all adults over the age of 45 should have their cholesterol checked regularly.³

Adults who are under 45 years of age and who have other risk factors should also be tested regularly. If any of the following apply to you, talk to your doctor about having your cholesterol tested.¹¹

• Are you a smoker?
• Exercise less than 15 minutes weekly?
• Eat less than 1 serve of fruit daily?
• Eat less than 3 serves of vegetables daily?
• Standard alcoholic drinks daily: more than 4 (male) or more than 2 (female)?
• High blood pressure (BP)?
• Overweight?
• Diagnosed with diabetes?
• Family history of heart disease or diabetes?
• High cholesterol levels?

Australian Guidelines

The National Heart Foundation of Australia and the Cardiac Society of Australia and New Zealand have drawn up a set of guidelines for cholesterol target levels and cholesterol management. These guidelines are just that... guidelines. You must always discuss your cholesterol levels, risk factors and treatment plan with your doctor.

Cholesterol target levels for patients at high cardiovascular risk²

HDL cholesterol	greater than 1.0 mmol/L
LDL cholesterol	less than 2.5 mmol/L
Triglycerides	less than 1.5 mmol/L

REMEMBER, if you have any doubts or concerns about your risk factors for high cholesterol or if you need to discuss any other health matters, consult your doctor.