Cholesterol and Lipids
Cholesterol is a fat-like substance necessary for building cell membranes, hormone synthesis, and bile acid production. Cholesterol is transported in the blood as part of lipoproteins of different densities — LDL (low-density lipoproteins) and HDL (high-density lipoproteins).
Blood lipids include cholesterol, triglycerides, and phospholipids — the main components of fat metabolism. Lipid metabolism disorders can lead to atherosclerosis — the deposition of fatty plaques on vessel walls, increasing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, heart attacks, and strokes.
What is evaluated in a lipid panel:
- Total cholesterol — the combined level of all types of cholesterol in the blood.
- LDL (“bad” cholesterol) — contributes to fat deposits on vessel walls.
- HDL (“good” cholesterol) — helps remove excess cholesterol from vessels and protects against atherosclerosis.
- Triglycerides — the main type of fat in the body; elevated levels also increase cardiovascular risk.
Why cholesterol and lipid testing is done:
- Assess risk of atherosclerosis and ischemic heart disease
- Diagnose and monitor treatment of dyslipidemias
- Monitor patients with diabetes and obesity
How the test is performed:
- Blood is drawn from a vein fasting (at least 8 hours without food)
- Avoid heavy food and alcohol at least one day before the test
- It is recommended to avoid intense physical activity the day before the test
Important to know:
- Lipid levels are closely related to lifestyle, diet, and genetics
- Changes in lipid levels often have no symptoms, so regular monitoring is important for complication prevention
- Additional diagnostic methods and doctor consultation may be required for accurate risk assessment