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.