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Definition of total cholesterol test

A total cholesterol test is a blood test that measures the amount of cholesterol in your blood. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is found in all cells of the body and is needed to build healthy cells, but too much cholesterol can lead to the development of heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions.

The test measures both low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "good" cholesterol. LDL cholesterol can cause plaque buildup in the arteries, which can lead to heart disease, while HDL cholesterol helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and can protect against heart disease.

Reasons for performing a total cholesterol test

A total cholesterol test is typically performed as part of a routine health screening or if your healthcare provider suspects you may be at risk for developing heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions. The test is a simple blood test that is performed by taking a sample of blood from a vein in your arm.

Procedure for performing a total cholesterol test

Fasting is required (not eat or drink anything except water) for 9 to 12 hours before the test to ensure accurate results.

Interpretation of total cholesterol test results

The results of a total cholesterol test are reported as milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L) of blood. Normal total cholesterol levels are generally considered to be less than 200 mg/dL (5.2 mmol/L), while levels between 200 and 239 mg/dL (5.2 to 6.2 mmol/L) are considered borderline high. Levels above 240 mg/dL (6.2 mmol/L) are considered high and may require treatment to lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease or other cardiovascular conditions.