HDL CHOLESTEROL, SERUM

The test is used as a screening test in people who are at high risk for cardiovascular diseases. Hypertension, cigarette smoking, poor lipid profile, diabetes and family history of heart diseases are all risk factors. People who have more risk factors need regular and ongoing testing to assess their risk for heart disease.

The total cholesterol in the blood is the sum of all cholesterol found in the different lipoproteins in the body; HDL, LDL, VLDL and triglycerides. LDL and VLDL cholesterol build up in arteries while HDL Cholesterol removes the cholesterol from the arteries and takes it to the liver for processing. It is important to maintain optimal levels of HDL cholesterol in the blood for good health.

The HDL Cholesterol test measures the amount of cholesterol that is found inside the high-density lipoproteins in the blood.

Other names: High Density Lipoprotein cholesterol test     

HDL Cholesterol is often referred to as the ‘Good cholesterol’ as it indicates good cardiovascular health and LDL Cholesterol is referred to as the bad cholesterol and is associated with poor cardiovascular health.

HDL levels that are lower than 40 mg/dl is considered low and these people are at higher risk of developing heart disease.

HDL Levels greater than 60 mg/dl is considered a good level and associated with good cardiovascular health.