Cholesterol Level
Different Types of Cholesterol
There are two forms of cholesterol. These are termed high density lipoprotein (HDL) and low density lipoprotein (LDL). These definitions are based on the relative percentage of fat and protein. No need to remember these terms but HDL is generally considered to be “good” cholesterol and LDL is considered to be “bad” cholesterol. Why is this?
Good Cholesterol
Between a quarter and a third of blood cholesterol is transported by HDL, or good cholesterol. Medical experts believe that HDL carries cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver, from where it can be passed from the body. Some experts also believe that HDL may remove excess cholesterol built up in arteries thereby slowing the buildup.
Bad Cholesterol
If there is too much LDL cholesterol circulating in the bloodstream, it can gradually build up on the inner walls of the arteries. Along with other substances it can form “plaque” - a hard deposit that can narrow the arteries and cause problems with blood flow. The medical term for this condition is atherosclerosis.
Recommended Cholesterol Level
Different countries use different units for measuring cholesterol levels. The levels below are in mg/dL – the system which is used in the USA and some other countries. In the UK and some other countries the unit used is mmol/L. You can make an approximate conversion from mg/dL to mmol/L by dividing by 40.
The first test normally looks at the total cholesterol level. However, as noted earlier, there are different types of cholesterol and it may be necessary to perform a further test to more accurately define the levels of the various different types of cholesterol in your bloodstream.
The guidelines pertaining to the various levels apply to people who do not have heart disease and who are over 20 years of age.
|
Total Cholesterol
(mg/dL) |
HDL Cholesterol
(mg/dL) |
Required Action |
|
Less than 200 |
40 or higher |
These are good results. Take sensible precautions to ensure your cholesterol level stays low. Eat foods which are low in saturated fats, maintain a healthy weight, keep physically active and don’t smoke. Have your levels checked again in about 5 years. |
|
Less than 200 |
Less than 40 |
You need a supplementary test to establish the level of “bad” LDL cholesterol. You will need to fast for 9 to 12 hours prior to this extra test – nothing but water, coffee or tea (with no milk or sugar). |
|
Between 200 and 239 |
40 or higher |
Your doctor will consider whether or not you have other factors which may require further testing. |
|
Above 240 |
-- |
You will need a supplementary test to establish your LDL cholesterol level. |
LDL Cholesterol Level - Supplementary Test
If it is necessary to perform a supplementary test – also known as a “lipoprotein profile” -to establish your LDL cholesterol level, your doctor will probably instruct you to fast for a period of between 9 and 12 hours before the test. This additional test will give your doctor more information about your risk of developing heart disease and help him or her to decide upon the most appropriate treatment.
There are three categories for LDL cholesterol, which must be considered in conjunction with the results of the initial total cholesterol test and other factors including your family history, your own medical history, your diet and your lifestyle. These categories are as below:
Desirable less than 130 mg/dL
Borderline between 130 and 159 mg/dL
High risk 160 mg/dL and above
Of course, the levels are only guidelines and your doctor will consider many other factors when assessing your overall risk profile.
Even if you have low levels of cholesterol you should not be complacent and should take positive steps to maintain this level. Remember there is a tendency for cholesterol levels to rise as you get older.
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