Cholesterol, Total

Ordering the Cholesterol Total with Access Medical Labs

The cholesterol total test measures the amount of cholesterol and other fats in an individual's blood.

A cholesterol test can help the physician determine the risk of of developing heart disease.

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance found in the blood and every cell. It has an essential role in the membrane of the cell's physiology, and we all need some cholesterol to keep our cells and organs healthy.

The liver produces all the cholesterol the body needs. But cholesterol can also come from food, especially meat, poultry, eggs, and dairy products.

There are two main types of cholesterol: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as "bad" cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good" cholesterol.

Which Patients is the Cholesterol Total Best Used For?

• The physician may order a cholesterol test as part of a routine exam
• If there is a family history of heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Type 2 diabetes
• Smoking
• Excess weight
• Lack of physical activity
• A diet high in saturated fat
  

Less than 200mg/dL is the desirable cholesterol value in a person's blood.

If the test shows high cholesterol levels, this test can help a practitioner make an individual plan and take steps to lower them.