This is a screening test for lipid disorders which are an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The optimal level of total cholesterol is less than 200 (mg/dL). The optimal level of LDL cholesterol is less than 100 (mg/dL). The optimal level of HDL cholesterol is greater than or equal 40 (mg/dL). The optimal level of triglycerides is less than 150 (mg/dL).

About 20% of Americans over age 20 have high cholesterol. Lipid profile testing is done to determine the level of total cholesterol, low density lipoproteins (LDL) cholesterol, high density lipoproteins (HDL) cholesterol, and triglycerides (TG) in the blood. This test is designed to see if you have a lipid disorder which can lead to an increased risk of heart disease and atherosclerosis. Treatment is recommended for lipid disorders depending on the blood levels of the particular lipids. In particular, LDL, which accounts for carrying 60-70% of the total cholesterol in the blood, is the most important lipoprotein contributing to plaque formation in arteries.

This test is a simple blood test typically drawn from an arm vein. There are some home testing devices available as well. If you use a home test kit, detailed instructions are included and you may need to get more tests in a laboratory afterwards. Abnormal results need to be discussed with a physician.

You will probably be told not to eat or drink for 9-12 hours prior to this test. If the test is done in the non-fasting state, only the total cholesterol and the high density lipoprotein (HDL) will be accurate and a follow-up fasting test may be suggested if the total cholesterol is greater than 200 mg/dL or the HDL is less than 40 mg/dL.

• Genetics
• High-fat diets-especially diets high in saturated fat, cholesterol, and trans fatty acids
• Obesity
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Diabetes
• Certain medications: birth control pills, estrogen, corticosteroids, some diuretics, beta blocker
• Excessive alcohol intake
• Cigarette smoking-low HDL and high TG
• High carb diets (low HDL and high TG)
• Kidney Failure
• Anabolic steroids (low HDL)
• Protease Inhibitors used for HIV (high TG)
• Elevated TG (contribute to low HDL)