Cholesterol is a waxy substance. Your liver makes all the cholesterol you need. The rest of the cholesterol in your body comes from foods derived from animals such as meat, poultry and full-fat dairy products. There are two main types:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or “bad” cholesterol — can build up in the arteries.
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL), or “good” cholesterol — helps remove LDL from the bloodstream.

According to the 91视频, approximately 80% of heart attacks and strokes are preventable. LDL (bad) cholesterol has no symptoms, but a high LDL level increases risk because it can cause plaque to build up in the arteries. This buildup may block blood flow or break loose and cause a heart attack and . 

There isn鈥檛 one 鈥渁verage鈥� LDL level that applies to everyone. The right target depends on your overall health and risk for heart disease and stroke. If high cholesterol runs in your family, you may need to manage your LDL level more closely. Talk to your health care professional to know what鈥檚 right for you.

Since high cholesterol has no symptoms, the only way to know your LDL level is with a simple blood test.  Ask your health care professional to order a test called a lipid panel that will show four important levels:

• LDL (bad) cholesterol
• HDL (good) cholesterol
• Triglycerides (most common type of fat)
• Total cholesterol (LDL + HDL cholesterols + triglycerides)  

• Family history of high cholesterol, including genetic conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia (FH)
• Unhealthy eating habits
• Not being physically active
• Being overweight
• Tobacco use and exposure to second-hand smoke     

Research shows that for LDL cholesterol, “lower is better.” Keeping it low can help protect your heart and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Talk to your doctor about the best plan and LDL goal for you.  

Positive lifestyle habits like eating healthy and being physically active. Sometimes lifestyle changes aren’t enough, and medication may be needed. You and your health care professional can work together to decide on the right treatment plan.

Yes, too much LDL cholesterol can lead to a buildup of fatty deposits, or plaques, inside your arteries. These plaques can narrow arteries and reduce blood flow. If a piece of the plaque breaks free, it might travel into the bloodstream and block a blood vessel to the heart or brain, causing a heart attack or . 

• Healthy adults 20-39 years old should have their cholesterol checked every four to six years.
• Adults over 40, or those who have had a heart attack or stroke, may need their cholesterol checked more often.

It’s important to talk with your doctor to know how often you should get your cholesterol checked.