HDLcholesterol

HDL cholesterol, also known as high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), is a component of the blood lipid profile. HDL particles are denser and smaller than other lipoproteins and contain a relatively high proportion of protein. The central function attributed to HDL is reverse cholesterol transport: HDL collects cholesterol from peripheral tissues and circulating lipoproteins and delivers it to the liver for excretion or recycling. In addition, HDL has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which may contribute to cardiovascular protection, although drugs that raise HDL-C have not consistently reduced cardiovascular events.

HDL-C is measured as part of a standard lipid panel, reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L). In adults, levels of 60 mg/dL (1.55 mmol/L) or higher are often described as protective, while levels below 40 mg/dL (1.0 mmol/L) in men and below 50 mg/dL (1.3 mmol/L) in women are associated with greater risk, though overall risk depends on multiple factors including LDL-C, triglycerides, blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and age.

Lifestyle factors influence HDL-C. Regular aerobic exercise, weight management, and smoking cessation tend to raise HDL-C modestly; moderate alcohol intake can raise HDL-C but carries other risks. Diet and genetics also play roles, and some medications increase HDL-C without clear evidence of reduced cardiovascular events. HDL-C remains a useful marker in risk assessment, but functional aspects of HDL may be as important as its quantity.