Cholesterol Test: What You Need to Know
A cholesterol test, also known as a lipid test or lipid profile, is a common blood test used to measure the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. Doctors use this test to evaluate your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.
This test measures both “good” cholesterol (HDL) and “bad” cholesterol (LDL), along with triglycerides, which are a type of fat found in the blood.
Why Is Cholesterol Important?
Cholesterol is a soft, waxy substance that your body needs to function properly. It helps build cells and produce hormones. However, too much cholesterol in the blood can be dangerous and may lead to:
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Heart disease
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Stroke
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Atherosclerosis (clogged or hardened arteries)
Keeping your cholesterol levels within a healthy range is essential for long-term heart health.
When Should You Get a Cholesterol Test?
General guidelines for cholesterol screening include:
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Men: Begin regular testing at age 35 or earlier
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Women: Begin regular testing at age 45 or earlier
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All adults: Get tested every 5 years starting at age 20
You may need annual cholesterol testing if you:
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Have diabetes
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Have heart disease or a history of stroke
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Have high blood pressure
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Take cholesterol-lowering medication
Who Is at Risk for High Cholesterol?
You may be at higher risk for high cholesterol if you:
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Have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
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Are overweight or obese
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Smoke
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Drink alcohol regularly
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Have diabetes, kidney disease, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or hypothyroidism
These risk factors can significantly increase your chances of developing unhealthy cholesterol levels.
What Does a Cholesterol Test Measure?
A complete lipid panel measures four main types of fats (lipids) in your blood:
1. Total Cholesterol
The overall amount of cholesterol in your blood.
2. LDL Cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein)
Often called “bad cholesterol.” High LDL levels increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and atherosclerosis.
3. HDL Cholesterol (High-Density Lipoprotein)
Known as “good cholesterol.” HDL helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.
4. Triglycerides
Triglycerides store excess calories as fat. High levels are often linked to obesity, diabetes, high sugar intake, and excessive alcohol use.
How to Prepare for a Cholesterol Test
Your doctor may ask you to fast for 9–12 hours before the test, especially if you are getting a full lipid panel. During fasting, you should only drink water.
Before the test, tell your doctor about:
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Any symptoms or health conditions
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Your family history of heart disease
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All medications and supplements you take
Some medications, including birth control pills, may temporarily raise cholesterol levels. Your doctor may advise stopping certain medications before testing.
How Is a Cholesterol Test Done?
A cholesterol test is a simple blood draw, usually done in the morning. It is:
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Quick and minimally painful
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An outpatient procedure
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Performed at a lab, doctor’s office, pharmacy, or at home
Estimated costs:
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Doctor or lab test: $50–$100
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Pharmacy test: $5–$25
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Home test kit: $15–$25
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Mail-in lab tests: $75–$200
Risks are minimal and may include slight bruising, soreness, or a very small risk of infection.
Understanding Cholesterol Test Results
Cholesterol levels are measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Ideal ranges for most adults include:
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LDL cholesterol: 70–130 mg/dL (lower is better)
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HDL cholesterol: 40–60 mg/dL or higher (higher is better)
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Total cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL
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Triglycerides: 10–150 mg/dL
If your results are outside normal ranges, your doctor may recommend additional tests, such as blood glucose testing for diabetes or thyroid function tests.
Can Cholesterol Test Results Be Inaccurate?
Yes, cholesterol test results can sometimes be inaccurate. Factors that may affect accuracy include:
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Improper fasting
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Certain medications
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Lab or calculation errors
Research published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology shows that common methods for calculating LDL cholesterol can sometimes be inaccurate. Testing HDL, LDL, and triglycerides together provides a more reliable assessment.
Next Steps: Treatment and Management
High cholesterol is highly manageable with lifestyle changes and medication when needed.
Lifestyle Changes to Lower Cholesterol
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Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake
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Eat a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fat and sodium
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Choose vegetables, fruits, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy
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Exercise at least 150 minutes per week, plus strength training twice weekly
Your doctor may recommend a Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes (TLC) diet, which limits saturated fat to 7% of daily calories and cholesterol intake to under 200 mg per day.
Cholesterol-Lowering Foods
Certain foods may help reduce cholesterol absorption, including:
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Oats
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Beans
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Eggplant
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Melons
Medications
If lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor may prescribe statins or other cholesterol-lowering medications to reduce LDL levels and protect heart health.
Conclusion
A cholesterol test is a vital tool for preventing heart disease and stroke. With regular testing, healthy lifestyle habits, and proper treatment, high cholesterol can be effectively controlled. Work with your doctor to create a plan you can maintain long-term—the earlier you take action, the better your heart health outcomes will be.
