A cholesterol profile is a group of blood tests that measures cholesterol, other lipids and triglycerides. The profile assists doctors in determining risk for cardiovascular disease. Lipoproteins are a combination of fat and protein. They carry cholesterol and triglycerides through the blood to various parts of the body. Adults should begin lipid profile screening between the ages 20 and 35 in men and ages 20 and 45 in women. Follow-up screening should be done every five years or more often if directed by a physician. Screenings help physicians determine if dietary or pharmaceutical therapy is necessary.
Low-Density Lipoprotein
Elevated LDL levels higher than or equal to 160 mg/dL are associated with heart disease and stroke. For this reason, LDL is called "bad cholesterol." A healthy LDL level is categorized as "optimal" or "near-optimal." Less than 100 mg/dL is optimal unless you have a history of heart disease or elevated risk for atherosclerotic disease; in this case, "optimal" is less than 70 mg/dL. The near-optimal level is 100 to 129 mg/dL.
High-Density Lipoprotein
HDL is called "good cholesterol." Higher levels are linked to a reduced risk for heart and blood vessel disease. Levels should be over 40 mg/dL, but an HDL of 60 mg/dL or higher is protective against heart disease.
Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol combines both LDL and HDL cholesterol. Total cholesterol levels are categorized as desirable, under 200 mg/dL; borderline high, 200 to 239 mg/dL; and high risk, 240 mg/dL and greater. High total cholesterol may be associated with increased heart disease risk, but LDL is the better predictor. High total cholesterol may be indicative of other conditions including cirrhosis, hypothyroidism, kidney disease or uncontrolled diabetes.
Triglycerides
High triglyceride levels may increase risk for heart attack and stroke or cause inflammation of the pancreas. A normal triglyceride level is less than 150 mg/dL; borderline high, 150 to 199 mg/dL; high, 200 to 499 mg/dL; and very high, 500 mg/dL or above. Conditions associated with high triglycerides include cirrhosis, hypothyroidism, kidney disease, pancreatitis and poorly controlled diabetes.
Very-Low-Density Lipoprotein
VLDL contains the highest concentration of triglycerides. It is a type of bad cholesterol, since it helps cholesterol accumulate on artery walls. A normal VLDL level is between 5 and 40 mg/dL.
