Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that naturally occurs in your blood. The three types of blood cholesterol are:
- HDL, or “good cholesterol,” helps protect against heart disease, the higher the HDL cholesterol the lower the risk of developing coronary artery disease.
- LDL, or “bad cholesterol,” is the main culprit for heart disease and blockages in the arteries.
- Triglycerides are another form of fat in the blood that typically result from excess calories and a sedentary lifestyle.
Quick facts:
- About 17% of American adults have high blood cholesterol.
- High cholesterol does not produce symptoms, so many people may not know that their blood cholesterol is too high.
How do I find out what my cholesterol is?
Blood cholesterol levels can be easily checked with simple blood tests. You will have this test during your annual physical. In addition, health fairs may provide free cholesterol testing.
See what your cholesterol levels mean
| Total Cholesterol Level |
Category |
| Less than 200 mg/ dL |
Desirable |
| 200-239 mg/ dL |
Borderline high |
| 240 mg/ dL and above |
High |
| LDL Cholesterol Levels |
| Less than 100 mg/ dL |
Desirable |
| 100-129 mg/ dL |
Elevated |
| 130-159 mg/ dL |
Borderline high |
| 160-189 mg/ dL |
High |
| 190 mg/ dL and above |
Very high |
| HDL Cholesterol Levels |
| 40 mg/ dL or less |
Low and a major risk factor |
| 40 mg/ dL or higher |
Helps lower the risk of CAD |
| Triglycerides |
| 150-100 mg/ dL |
Borderline high |
| 200 mg/ dL or higher |
High |
| Glucose (fasting) |
| Less than 100 mg/ dL |
Desirable |
| 100-125 mg/ dL |
Pre-Diabetes |
| 126 mg/ dL or higher |
Diabetes |
