Understanding my cholesterol test results

What does a cholesterol test measure?

A cholesterol test, sometimes called a lipid profile, measures different types of fat in your blood.

Your results may include:

Total cholesterol

This is the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood. It includes both HDL cholesterol and non-HDL cholesterol.

HDL cholesterol

HDL is sometimes called “good” cholesterol because it helps carry cholesterol away from your arteries and back to your liver.

For HDL cholesterol, a higher level is generally better.

Non-HDL cholesterol

Non-HDL cholesterol includes all the types of cholesterol that can contribute to fatty build-up in your arteries.

It is calculated by subtracting your HDL cholesterol from your total cholesterol. A lower level is generally better.

LDL cholesterol

LDL is one of the main types of cholesterol included within your non-HDL result. Too much LDL cholesterol can contribute to fatty build-up in the arteries.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are another type of fat found in your blood. A cholesterol test may measure these alongside your cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol ratio

Your cholesterol ratio compares your total cholesterol with your HDL cholesterol. It may be used as part of an assessment of your overall risk of heart and circulatory disease.

The ratio should not be considered on its own. It is possible to have a reassuring ratio because your HDL is high, while your non-HDL or LDL cholesterol is also higher than recommended. heartuk.org.uk

What are healthy cholesterol levels?

As a general guide for healthy adults, the recommends:

• Total cholesterol: below 5 mmol/L
• Non-HDL cholesterol: below 4 mmol/L
• HDL cholesterol: above 1.0 mmol/L for men and above 1.2 mmol/L for women

Cholesterol is measured in millimoles per litre, written as mmol/L.

These figures are general guides, not personal targets for everyone. Your healthcare professional may recommend different targets if you have heart disease, diabetes or another health condition, or if you take cholesterol-lowering medicine. nhs.uk, bhf.org.uk

What do my results mean for me?

Your cholesterol result is only one part of your overall heart health.

Your GP, nurse or pharmacist may also consider:

• Your age
• Your blood pressure
• Whether you smoke
• Your family history
• Your ethnic background
• Your weight
• Whether you have diabetes or another health condition
• Whether you have previously had a heart or circulation problem

They may use this information to calculate your QRISK score. This estimates your risk of developing a heart or circulation problem during the next 10 years. nhs.uk

If you are unsure what your results mean, ask your healthcare professional to explain each number and whether you have a personal cholesterol target.

What if my cholesterol is higher than recommended?

Try not to worry. A higher cholesterol result does not mean that you have heart disease.

Depending on your results and overall risk, your healthcare professional may recommend:

• Eating less saturated fat
• Replacing saturated fat with unsaturated fat
• Eating more fibre-rich foods
• Becoming more active
• Getting support to stop smoking
• Taking cholesterol-lowering medicine
• Having another test after a set period
• using plant sterols

Some people can improve their cholesterol through changes to their diet and lifestyle. Others may also need medicine. Your healthcare professional can help you decide what is right for you. nhs.uk, heartuk.org.uk

How is a cholesterol test carried out?

There are two common ways to have a cholesterol test.

Blood test from your arm

A healthcare professional takes a small blood sample from a vein in your arm. The sample is sent to a laboratory, and you should usually receive your results within a few days.

Most people do not need to fast before a cholesterol test, although you may occasionally be asked not to eat for up to 12 hours. Follow the instructions given by your healthcare professional. nhs.uk

Finger-prick test

A small drop of blood is taken from your fingertip and placed into a testing machine. The results may be available within a few minutes.

Finger-prick cholesterol tests may be available during an NHS Health Check or through some pharmacies. Some pharmacy tests may have a charge. nhs.uk

How can I get a cholesterol test?

Speak to your GP surgery if:

• You are over 40 and have not had your cholesterol checked
• High cholesterol or heart disease runs in your family
• You have high blood pressure or diabetes
• You are overweight
• You have previously had a high cholesterol result
• You are concerned about your heart health

If you live in England and are aged 40 to 74, you may be eligible for a free NHS Health Check, depending on your health history.

If you already have a health condition or take cholesterol-lowering medicine, your healthcare team will advise you on how often you need a test. nhs.uk

Taking your next step

Knowing your cholesterol levels can help you make informed choices about your health.

If your cholesterol is higher than recommended, you do not need to change everything at once. Start with one or two manageable steps, and follow any advice from your healthcare professional.

You can explore our guide to lowering cholesterol or download our Cholesterol Lowering Starter Kit for practical food swaps, recipes and everyday tips.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes and is not a substitute for personalised medical advice. If you have questions about your cholesterol results or health, speak to your GP or another qualified healthcare professional.