Cholesterol test results give a detailed picture of your lipid health, and interpreting them correctly is crucial for understanding cardiovascular risk. Typically, the test provides results for total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Each number conveys important information.
Total cholesterol: A level below 200 mg/dL is considered desirable. Levels between 200–239 mg/dL are borderline, and 240 mg/dL or higher is high, increasing heart disease risk.
LDL cholesterol: Often called “bad cholesterol,” since it contributes to plaque buildup in arteries. Optimal LDL is less than 100 mg/dL. Levels between 100–129 mg/dL are near optimal, 130–159 mg/dL borderline high, 160–189 mg/dL high, and 190 mg/dL or higher is very high.
HDL cholesterol: Known as “good cholesterol,” since it helps remove excess cholesterol from blood. Higher is better; 60 mg/dL or higher is protective, while less than 40 mg/dL (for men) or 50 mg/dL (for women) is considered low and raises heart disease risk.
Triglycerides: Normal levels are below 150 mg/dL. Borderline is 150–199 mg/dL, high is 200–499 mg/dL, and very high is 500 mg/dL or above.
These numbers must be interpreted in context. For instance, a person with slightly high total cholesterol but very high HDL might not be at as much risk as someone with moderately elevated LDL and low HDL. Doctors often calculate a cholesterol/HDL ratio, where a lower ratio indicates lower risk.
Additionally, cholesterol results are considered alongside other risk factors such as age, sex, blood pressure, smoking status, diabetes, obesity, and family history. Together, they help determine the 10-year risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
In practical terms, if results show abnormalities, a doctor may recommend lifestyle changes like improving diet, exercising, reducing alcohol, or stopping smoking. If risk is significant, medication may be required to reduce LDL and overall cardiovascular risk.
Therefore, cholesterol results aren’t just numbers—they are a roadmap for preventive health strategies. A “normal” result provides reassurance but still requires healthy living, while an “abnormal” result is an early warning sign that action is needed to protect heart health.