What is a cholesterol test?
A cholesterol test, also known as a lipid panel or lipid profile, is a blood test that measures the levels of fats (lipids) in an individual's blood. These include total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides expressed in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L).
The test is a simple blood draw, usually from the arm. To get accurate results, the individual may be asked to fast for 9-12 hours before the test. After the blood is drawn, it is sent to a laboratory for analysis. Results are typically available within a few days and may be recorded in a Cholesterol Test Report form. This information provides helpful data about an individual's risk of developing heart disease or other health conditions. It is recommended that adults over the age of 20 should have their cholesterol levels tested every 4-6 years unless they have certain risk factors that may require more frequent testing (American Heart Association, 2024).
It is worth noting that these numbers can then be compared to healthy ranges based on age, sex, and other risk factors, helping individuals and healthcare providers identify trends, assess risk factors, and make informed diet, exercise, and medication decisions.










