Keeping Cholesterol in Check

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the blood. When there is too much cholesterol, it builds up in the walls of arteries. Over time, this buildup causes arteries to narrow, which slows or blocks blood flow to the heart. If the blood supply to part of the heart is cut off, a heart attack may result.

Getting Tested¹

Since high levels of artery-clogging cholesterol put you at risk for heart disease, it's important that all men age 35 and older and all women age 45 and older be tested routinely, (frequency to be determined by your doctor), for cholesterol. Younger adults (men ages 20 - 35 and women ages 20 - 45) should be tested if they have other risk factors for heart disease. These other risk factors include tobacco use, diabetes, family history of high cholesterol or heart disease, or high blood pressure. The best measure of cholesterol is a blood test called a lipoprotein profile. This test measures total cholesterol, including good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol levels. It also measures triglycerides, another form of fat in the blood. Ask your doctor if you're due for a cholesterol test.

1 Source: U.S. Preventive Services Task Force