Cholesterol Testing
Cholesterol testing is used to estimate the risk of developing heart disease, rather than to diagnose a specific problem. Since high levels of cholesterol appear to be associated with heart disease and hardening of the arteries, testing cholesterol is considered a routine practice in preventive health care.
A complete lipid profile measures the various fats, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein, and triglycerides in the blood. It is recommended that adults have a lipid profile performed at least every 5 years, commonly in conjunction with a routine physical examination.
Cholesterol testing is performed more frequently for those who have been prescribed lifestyle changes, dietary changes or cholesterol-lowering drugs to lower cholesterol. These more frequent lipid profile tests are used to measure the progress and effectiveness of the prescribed methods.
Other considerations which may warrant more frequent lipid profile testing:
- Age
- Smoking
- Previous heart attack or heart disease
- Hypertension
Cholesterol testing in pre-adults and in low-risk is not routinely performed. There are certain conditions, however, such as smoking, an unhealthy diet high in saturated fats or cholesterol, obesity, or family history which may warrant additional lipid screening.
What the numbers mean
The lower your LDL cholesterol is, the lower your risk of heart disease. LDL is a much more important factor than total cholesterol levels.
| LDL Cholesterol | |
| Less than 100 mg/dl | Ideal |
| 100 – 129 mg/dl | Near ideal |
| 130 – 159 mg/dl | Borderline |
| 160 – 189 mg/dl | High |
| 190 mg/dl or higher | Very high |
If your cholesterol levels are too high, your physician can determine a course of action toward lowering your cholesterol.
High levels of triglycerides are often accompanied by a high level of total cholesterol, including high LDL (the bad cholesterol) and low HDL (the good cholesterol).
| Triglycerides | |
| Less than 150 mg/dl | Ideal |
| 150 – 199 mg/dl | Borderline |
| 200 – 499 mg/dl | High |
| 500 mg/dl or higher | Very high |
Contributors to high triglycerides include smoking, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, high carbohydrate diet, and excessive alcohol consumption. To reduce triglycerides, a change of lifestyle will usually help. Quitting smoking, exercising, losing weight, and reducing alcohol intake are all steps that can help. Your physician can help you develop a plan of action toward your specific needs in lowering triglyceride levels.