WEEKLY NEWSLETTER

Health's Top Stories
Get a weekly look at the most popular stories on Health.com.
See All Newsletters

High cholesterol

  • Print
content provided by Healthwise

Cholesterol is a type of fat (lipid) that the body needs for many important functions, such as producing new cells. High cholesterol increases the risk of developing heart disease and stroke.

High cholesterol is caused by eating a diet that is too high in cholesterol and saturated fat or by having an inherited condition that causes elevated cholesterol levels.

Treatment includes eating a more healthful diet, increasing physical activity, and possibly taking cholesterol-lowering medicines.

A blood test can determine whether you have high cholesterol. Cholesterol is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) or millimoles per liter (mmol/L).

  • A total cholesterol level of less than 200 mg/dL (5.17 mmol/L) is desirable.
  • 200 to 239 (5.17 to 6.18) is considered borderline-high cholesterol.
  • 240 (6.21) or higher is considered high cholesterol.

Credits

AuthorJeannette Curtis
AuthorCaroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
EditorKathleen M. Ariss, MS
EditorSusan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA
Associate EditorTracy Landauer
Associate EditorPat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical ReviewerPatrice Burgess, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical ReviewerAdam Husney, MD

- Family Medicine
Primary Medical ReviewerKathleen Romito, MD

- Family Medicine
Last UpdatedMay 25, 2007
  • Print
Last Updated: May 25, 2007
Author:
Jeannette Curtis

Caroline Rea, RN, BS, MS
Medical Review:
Patrice Burgess, MD - Family Medicine

Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine

Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine


© 1995-2008 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.



This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information.