cholesterollevels

Cholesterol levels refer to the amount of cholesterol in the blood and are usually assessed as part of a lipid panel. The panel measures total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), and triglycerides. Some reports also include non-HDL cholesterol or apolipoprotein B.

Measurement and ranges: A fasting blood sample is commonly used, though non-fasting tests are increasingly accepted in some settings. Values are reported in mg/dL (or mmol/L). Desirable ranges vary by guidelines, but general targets are: total cholesterol below 200 mg/dL, LDL-C often below 100 mg/dL and even lower for those at high cardiovascular risk, HDL-C above about 40 mg/dL in men and 50 mg/dL in women, and triglycerides below 150 mg/dL. In mmol/L, these roughly translate to total <5.2, LDL <2.6, HDL >1.0–1.5, and triglycerides <1.7.

Factors affecting levels: Diet, body weight, physical activity, and smoking influence cholesterol. Genetics can play a strong role; familial hypercholesterolemia causes very high LDL at a young age. Age and sex also affect lipid profiles, with men and postmenopausal women more prone to higher LDL until women after menopause.

Health significance: Elevated LDL-C is a major risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease. Very high triglycerides can raise pancreatitis risk. HDL-C’s protective value is recognized but less predictive than LDL-C; overall risk is assessed using lipid levels together with other factors such as blood pressure, diabetes, smoking, and age.

Management: Most people improve cholesterol levels with lifestyle changes—reducing saturated fats and trans fats, increasing soluble fiber, plant sterols, weight control, physical activity, and avoiding tobacco and excess alcohol. When lifestyle changes are insufficient, medications are used. Statins are first-line therapy; alternatives or add-ons include ezetimibe, PCSK9 inhibitors, bempedoic acid, and, for severe hypertriglyceridemia, fibrates or omega-3 fatty acids. Individual targets depend on overall cardiovascular risk and medical history.