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Cholesterol Testing
Testing Results include:
- Lipid Profile
- Cholesterol
- HDL
- LDL
- Risk Ratio
- Triglycerides
- Glucose
Results are given at the conclusion of the test.
For additional graphic detail see: www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/imagepages/19269.htm
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like material that is found in all parts of the
body. It comes from two sources: our liver produces it, and we consume it in meat and dairy products.
Total cholesterol level
A level of less than 200 mg/dL is desirable. But even levels of 200-239 mg/dL (borderline high) can increase your risk of heart disease.
Total Cholesterol Level |
Category |
Less than 200 mg/dL |
Desirable |
200 - 239 mg/dL |
Borderline high |
240 mg/dL and above |
High |
LDL (bad) cholesterol
A level of 160 mg/dL or above is high. Work with your health care provider to determine a goal LDL level that's best for you.
LDL Cholesterol Level |
Category |
Less than 100 mg/dL |
Optimal |
100-129 mg/dL |
Near optimal/above optimal |
130-159 mg/dL |
Borderline high |
160-189 mg/dL |
High |
190 mg/dL and above |
Very high |
HDL (good) cholesterol
A level of 60 mg/dL or more is good and helps to lower your risk for heart disease. Remember that HDL (good) cholesterol protects against heart disease, so for HDL, higher numbers are better. A level less than 40 mg/dL is low and increases your risk for developing heart disease.
Triglyceride levels
Can also raise your risk for heart disease. Levels that are borderline high (150-199 mg/dL) or high (200 mg/dL or more) may need treatment in some people.
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