LIPID PROFILE, BASIC

Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in the blood and produced naturally by the liver. Cholesterol is important for the formation of cell membranes, certain hormones, and vitamin D. 

Cholesterol is carried in the blood by proteins. When cholesterol and proteins combine, they're called lipoproteins. There are two main types of cholesterol as below: 

• Low-density lipoproteins (LDL), often called “bad” cholesterol. It carries cholesterol to the arteries. If the level of LDL cholesterol is too high, it can build up on the walls of the arteries also known as cholesterol plaque. If the blood contains too much LDL cholesterol, it is known as high cholesterol. High cholesterol can result in many complications, such as: 
  • Chest pain 
  • Heart attack 
  • Stroke 
  • High blood pressure 
  • Peripheral vascular disease 
  • Chronic kidney disease 
• High-density lipoproteins (HDL), often called “good” cholesterol. It helps return LDL cholesterol to the liver to be removed from the body and prevents cholesterol plaque from building up in the arteries. 

The Lipid Profile test assesses the levels of: 

• Total cholesterol: The total amount of cholesterol present in the bloodstream. 
• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol: LDL cholesterol level in the blood 
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol: HDL cholesterol level in the blood 
• Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat stored in the body's fat cells. Triglycerides can also contribute to the narrowing of the artery walls.  
• Very Low Density Lipoproteins or VLDLs: Lipoprotein particles of very low density which carry triglycerides to the tissues. Excess triglycerides in blood causes increase in VLDL particles which in turn again increases the chance of developing cardiovascular diseases. 

The Lipid Profile test may require you to fast 10-12 hours before the test. The blood is drawn from the vein and sent to the lab for testing.  

The doctor uses the results of the Lipid Profile test to assess the risk of heart disease and develop a plan of treatment. The test results may also be used to monitor the effectiveness of the treatment plan. The treatment plan may involve lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise or medications.  

Cholesterol levels are measured in milligrams (mg) of cholesterol per deciliter (dL) of blood. The ideal results for most adults are as stated below: 

• LDL (Bad Cholesterol): 70 to 130 mg/dL, Lower the better. 
• HDL (Good Cholesterol): 40 to 60 mg/dL, Higher the better.  
• Total cholesterol: less than 200 mg/dL, Lower the better. 
• Triglycerides: 10 to 150 mg/dL, Lower the better. 

The Lipid Profile test is recommended to be taken first between the age of 8-11 years. It should be then repeated every 5 years. This is because children are also at risk of cardiovascular diseases due to hereditary or lifestyle changes.  

People above 45 years of age should take this test every 1-2 years and those above the age of 65 must take this test yearly.