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Cholesterol Levels Test

A cholesterol test measures the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. It helps assess your risk for heart disease and other conditions.

What this test measures

A cholesterol test measures your LDL (bad) cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides. These are types of fats in your blood that affect heart health.

What your results mean

Reference ranges vary by laboratory and by your age and sex. MedlinePlus does not publish a single normal range for this test — always read your result against the range printed on your own lab report and discuss it with your provider.

Higher-than-normal results

According to the NIH, high LDL levels can cause plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk for coronary artery disease, heart attack, and stroke. High triglycerides may also increase heart disease risk.

Lower-than-normal results

According to the NIH, low HDL levels (less than 40 mg/dL for men) are considered a risk factor for heart disease.

Frequently asked questions

What is a cholesterol test?

A cholesterol test is a blood test that measures the amount of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood.

What do LDL and HDL stand for?

LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein (bad cholesterol), and HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein (good cholesterol).

Why is high cholesterol bad?

High LDL cholesterol can cause plaque buildup in your arteries, which can lead to heart attack or stroke.

What are healthy cholesterol levels?

Healthy levels vary by age and gender. For adults, total cholesterol should be less than 200 mg/dL, and LDL should be less than 100 mg/dL. HDL should be 60 mg/dL or higher for best protection.

Can I lower my cholesterol?

Yes, if your test shows high cholesterol, you can take steps to lower it, such as diet and lifestyle changes, which may decrease your risk of heart problems.

Related lab tests

Sources

Last updated . Information is aggregated from official public sources and is not a substitute for professional medical care.