Cholesterol plays a vital role in every cell in the body and is also to make hormones that are essential for development, growth and reproduction. Cholesterol also forms bile acids that are needed to absorb nutrients from food. A cholesterol test measures the cholesterol that circulates in the blood in particles called lipoproteins. These lipoproteins include HDL ‘good’ particles that carry excess cholesterol away for disposal, and LDL ‘bad’ particles that deposit cholesterol in tissues and organs.
Your body produces the cholesterol needed to work properly, but the source for some cholesterol is your diet. If you have a family history of high cholesterol or regularly eat foods high in cholesterol, then your levels can increase. This extra cholesterol in your blood can be deposited in plaques on the walls of blood vessels which can narrow or block them and lead to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis). This increases your risk of health problems including heart disease and stroke. We’ve designed this simple cholesterol test to help you manage your risk.
Lipids and cholesterol are fat-like substances in your blood. Some are necessary for good health, but when you have a high level of cholesterol in your blood, a lot of it ends up being deposited in the walls of your arteries and other vital organs. Lifestyle choices including diet, exercise and alcohol intake can all influence cholesterol levels and your risk of developing heart disease.
This cholesterol test measures:
Total cholesterol includes both HDL cholesterol and LDL cholesterol. Cholesterol is essential for many processes in the body, including the formation of cell membranes, the production of hormones, and the metabolism of vitamin D.
LDL cholesterol is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, as it can contribute to the development of atherosclerosis, a condition where plaque builds up in the arteries and can increase the risk of heart disease.
HDL cholesterol is often referred to as “good” cholesterol, as it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and can protect against the development of heart disease.
Triglycerides are the main storage form of fatty acids in the body and a source of energy. High levels of triglycerides are associated with cardiovascular disease, obesity, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
VLDL is considered “bad” cholesterol because high levels can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries. VLDL also has important functions in the body, such as providing energy to cells and helping to transport fat-soluble vitamins.
Non-HDL cholesterol is considered an effective lipid measurement for assessing cardiovascular disease risk as it is believed to reflect levels of ‘bad’ cholesterol.
The best time to do this test is first thing in the morning.
Fast from all food and drink (other than water) for at least 8 hours, and no more than 12 hours prior to your test.
Download and print your pathology form from your i-screen dashboard.
Take your form to one of our affiliated collection centres to have your sample taken.
