HDLCholesterins

HDL cholesterol, often abbreviated as HDL-C, refers to the cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein particles in the blood. It is typically measured as part of a lipid panel and reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) in the United States or millimoles per liter (mmol/L) in other countries.

HDL particles are involved in reverse cholesterol transport, a pathway that helps remove cholesterol from peripheral tissues and arterial walls and return it to the liver for excretion or reuse. This process relies on specific components, including apolipoprotein A-I and enzymes such as LCAT and CETP. HDL is structurally diverse, with particles of different sizes and compositions, and HDL function can be as important as the overall HDL-C level.

In epidemiological studies, higher HDL-C levels have been associated with lower cardiovascular risk. However, clinical trials aimed at raising HDL-C pharmacologically have not consistently reduced cardiovascular events, emphasizing that HDL functionality and the balance of the entire lipid profile matter. Clinically, HDL-C is interpreted alongside other lipid measures; desirable levels are generally considered to be at or above 60 mg/dL, while low HDL-C is typically defined as less than 40 mg/dL in men and less than 50 mg/dL in women, though guidelines vary.

Several factors influence HDL-C, including genetics, body weight, physical activity, smoking status, and alcohol intake. Lifestyle changes such as regular aerobic exercise, weight management, and a diet rich in healthy fats can modestly increase HDL-C. Some medications and certain medical conditions can alter HDL-C levels, but HDL-C modification alone is not a sole therapeutic target for cardiovascular risk reduction.