The Cholesterol, Total test measures the overall amount of cholesterol in the blood, including both low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy substance needed for hormone production, vitamin D synthesis, and cell membrane structure, but elevated levels can increase the risk of heart disease.
This test is commonly used to assess cardiovascular health and is often ordered as part of a lipid panel or routine health screening. Total cholesterol results are interpreted alongside HDL, LDL, and triglyceride levels to better understand overall heart disease risk.
Cholesterol, Total
Fasting Required
The Cholesterol, Total test measures the overall amount of cholesterol in the blood, including both low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Cholesterol is a waxy substance needed for hormone production, vitamin D synthesis, and cell membrane structure, but elevated levels can increase the risk of heart disease.
This test is commonly used to assess cardiovascular health and is often ordered as part of a lipid panel or routine health screening. Total cholesterol results are interpreted alongside HDL, LDL, and triglyceride levels to better understand overall heart disease risk.
