A complete cholesterol test, also known as a lipid profile, measures fat circulating in the blood. While the body needs fat to produce steroids, hormones, bile and cell membranes, only a small amount is required. Animal products such as meat, milk, cheese and eggs contain cholesterol and can raise levels in the body. However, according to the Harvard School of Public Health, the types of fats consumed have the greatest influence on cholesterol levels.
Blood Lipids
The test analyzes total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL) and triglycerides. Total cholesterol is the sum of LDL, HDL and triglycerides in the blood. LDL, commonly known as “bad” cholesterol, causes plaque to form in the arteries. With time, plaque builds and thickens, reducing blood flow, which can lead to heart attack, stroke or death. HDL, referred to as “good” cholesterol, carries LDL away from arteries to the liver to be disposed of.
Purpose
The test is used to identify those at risk for heart disease, the number one killer in the United States. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “About every 25 seconds, an American will have a coronary event, and about one every minute will die from one.”
The Mayo Clinic states, beginning at the age of 20, adults should have a complete cholesterol test performed every five years.
Procedure
To obtain true cholesterol results, the subject should consume no food or drink, other than water, between nine to 14 hours before the test, depending on the physician or lab. He should avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before the test.
A health care worker collects approximately 5 to 10 ml of blood with a needle at the inside of the elbow or the back of the hand. The procedure is complete once the punctured area has been bandaged.
Interpreting Results
All results should be in the normal to optimal range. Levels that fall within borderline or high, with the exception of HDL, are indicators of increased risk for heart disease. According to the American Heart Association, results can be defined as:
Total cholesterol
• Normal-under 200 mg/dL
• Borderline high-200 to 239 mg/dL
• High risk-240 mg/dL and higher
LDL
• Optimal-under 100 mg/dL
• Near optimal-100 to 120 mg/dL
• Borderline high-130 to 159 mg/dL
• High-160 to 189 mg/dL
• Very high-190 mg/dL and higher
HDL
This is the only blood lipid in which high levels are desirable.
• Men average-40 to 50 mg/dL
• Women average-50 to 60 mg/dL
For men and women, 60 mg/dL and above is considered protective against heart disease.
Levels below 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL for women indicate an increased risk for heart disease.
Improving Cholesterol
Making lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking, exercising and eating a healthy diet can greatly improve blood lipids. However, for individuals with a family history of high cholesterol, medications may be necessary in addition to healthy lifestyle changes. Health care providers can create personalized plans to meet each individual's needs.
