What does the HDL Cholesterol - HDL blood test mean? Get a free analysis of your blood test now. Here's what you get with our free analysis:
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol, often called 'good cholesterol,' plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health. It helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, transporting it to the liver for disposal. Higher levels of HDL are generally associated with a lower risk of heart disease and stroke. This test measures the amount of HDL cholesterol in your blood, providing insights into your overall cholesterol profile and potential cardiovascular risk. Regular monitoring of HDL levels, along with other lipid panel components, helps healthcare providers assess and manage an individual's risk for heart disease and guide lifestyle or medical interventions if necessary.
A low HDL cholesterol reading (below 40 mg/dL) may indicate an increased risk of heart disease. Low HDL levels can result from various factors, including:
Low HDL levels suggest that your body may not be effectively removing excess cholesterol from your bloodstream, potentially leading to plaque buildup in arteries. Your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes or medications to help increase your HDL levels and reduce cardiovascular risk.
An HDL cholesterol reading above 60 mg/dL is generally considered protective against heart disease. High HDL levels are often associated with:
While high HDL levels are typically beneficial, extremely high levels (above 100 mg/dL) may sometimes indicate an underlying genetic condition or liver disease. In most cases, however, higher HDL levels are desirable and contribute to better cardiovascular health by efficiently removing excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and reducing the risk of arterial plaque formation.