About Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol is a measure of the total amount of cholesterol in the blood, which includes low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL), and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is essential for the formation of cell membranes, hormone production, and other functions but can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries if levels are too high.
Reference Values
Optimal Range
80.0 - 160.0 mg/dL
Elite Value
90.0 mg/dL
Health Implications
High
Elevated levels may indicate an increased risk of heart disease and stroke due to arterial blockage and heart attacks.
Low
Low levels may be associated with increased risk of memory loss, depression, and potential endocrine disorders affecting hormone levels.
Symptoms
High
May include chest pain, shortness of breath, and dizziness.
Low
Can include fatigue, mood changes, and muscular stress.
Lifestyle Factors
Specimen Type
Testing Methods
Also Known As
Scientific Sources
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- 2. Mach, F., Baigent, C., Catapano, A. L., Koskinas, K. C., Casula, M., Badimon, L., ... & Piepoli, M. F. (2020). 2019 ESC/EAS guidelines for the management of dyslipidaemias: lipid modification to reduce cardiovascular risk. *European Heart Journal*, 41(1), 111–188.
- 3. Arnett, D. K., Blumenthal, R. S., Albert, M. A., Buroker, A. B., Goldberger, Z. D., Hahn, E. J., ... & Ziaeian, B. (2019). 2019 ACC/AHA guideline on the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease: a report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. *Circulation*, 140(11), e596–e646.
- 4. Ference, B. A., Ginsberg, H. N., Graham, I., Ray, K. K., Packard, C. J., Bruckert, E., ... & Catapano, A. L. (2017). Low-density lipoproteins cause atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: 1. Evidence from genetic, epidemiologic, and clinical studies. *European Heart Journal*, 38(32), 2459–2472.
- 5. Lloyd-Jones, D. M., Braun, L. T., Ndumele, C. E., Smith, S. C., Sperling, L. S., Virani, S. S., & Blumenthal, R. S. (2019). Use of risk assessment tools to guide decision-making in the primary prevention of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: a special report from the American Heart Association and American College of Cardiology. *Circulation*, 139(25), e1162–e1177.