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Cholesterol
levels are usually measured every five years, with more frequent
tests with previous abnormal results or a history of high cholesterol.
Cholesterol is tested through a simple blood test that measures your
total level of the “good” cholesterol (HDL) and the “bad” cholesterol
(LDL). Cholesterol is fat carried in your blood by lipoproteins.
LDL builds up in your artery walls while HDL carries cholesterol
to your liver for disposal. If you have too much LDL, your arteries
may become clogged with cholesterol, leading to atherosclerosis.
The test is important to make sure you don’t have too much
cholesterol in your blood, and that your risk for atherosclerosis,
heart disease and stroke are limited. If you have high cholesterol,
your provider will prescribe a low-cholesterol diet and medication
for treatment. |
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