Cholesterol

What is cholesterol? Waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells. Dietary cholesterol – found only in animal-based foods Blood cholesterol – made in the liver Your body makes all of the cholesterol it needs. *Although 1) and 2) are chemically identical, they don’t represent the same thing.

What are LDL and HDL? How do they differ? LDL (low-density lipoprotein, “bad” cholesterol) can build up on the inside of artery walls (known as plaque), contributing to artery blockages and heart attacks. Higher LDL levels mean higher risk. Over time, plaque can cause atherosclerosis. Large plaque areas can lead to chest pain called angina, a common symptom of coronary heart disease.

What are LDL and HDL? How do they differ? HDL (high-density lipoprotein, “good” cholesterol) carries cholesterol from other parts of your body back to the liver, which removes it from your body. Higher HDL levels generally mean lower risk.

What causes High Blood Cholesterol? What you eat (saturated fat, trans fat, dietary cholesterol) Your weight (overweight increases LDL) Your activity level (being sedentary raises LDL; activity raises HDL) Heredity Age and sex

What are the signs and symptoms of HBC? There usually are none. Thus, everyone should have their blood lipid profile checked at least once every 5 years.

How is HBC Diagnosed? Tests for total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides. FOR TOTAL CHOLESTEROL Desirable – Below 200 mg/dL (milligrams/deciliter of blood) Borderline High – mg/dL High – 240 mg/dL and above

How is HBC Treated? TLC = Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes: cholesterol-lowering diet, physical activity, and weight management Drug Treatment (ex: statins, niacin)