Book Your Private Cholesterol Test Today

Cholesterol is a fatty, waxy substance that is essential for the proper functioning of the body. It is a fundamental component of cell membranes, hormones, and vitamin D. While the body produces its own cholesterol, it is also obtained from certain foods.

Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream in lipoproteins, which are particles that carry cholesterol and fats. There are two main types of lipoproteins:

• Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often called "bad" cholesterol, LDL carries cholesterol from the liver to the cells. If there is an excess of LDL or if it is not effectively processed by the body, it can build up in the walls of arteries, forming plaque and increasing the risk of atherosclerosis and heart disease.

• High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL transports cholesterol away from the cells and back to the liver, where it can be processed and eliminated. High levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease, as it helps prevent the accumulation of cholesterol in the arteries.

Cholesterol levels are influenced by various factors, including genetics, diet, physical activity, and overall health. Maintaining a balance between LDL and HDL cholesterol is crucial for overall cardiovascular health.

A Cholesterol Blood Test, also known as a lipid panel or lipid profile, is a medical test that measures the levels of various types of cholesterol and fats in your blood. This test provides crucial information about your cardiovascular health and helps assess your risk of developing heart disease.

The components typically measured in a Cholesterol Blood Test include:

• Low-density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol: Often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, high levels of LDL cholesterol can contribute to the buildup of plaque in your arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

• High-density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol: Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream. Higher levels of HDL are generally associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

• Total cholesterol: This is the sum of your LDL Cholesterol + HDL Cholesterol + VLDL Cholesterol + Triglycerides.

• Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood. Elevated triglyceride levels may also contribute to the development of cardiovascular issues.

Undergoing a regular blood check for cholesterol is important for several reasons:

• Early detection: A Cholesterol Test helps identify abnormal cholesterol levels early on, allowing for timely intervention and lifestyle modifications to reduce the risk of heart disease.

• Risk assessment: Results from the test are used to assess your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases. High LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels, along with low HDL cholesterol, may indicate an increased risk.

• Treatment monitoring: For individuals already diagnosed with high cholesterol or undergoing treatment, regular Cholesterol Blood Tests help monitor the effectiveness of medications and lifestyle changes.

• Preventive healthcare: Even if you feel healthy, a Cholesterol Blood Test can be a preventive measure to catch potential issues before symptoms arise, promoting proactive health management.

High cholesterol levels can significantly impact cardiovascular health. Recognising the risk factors associated with high cholesterol levels is important for proactive health management.

The major risk factors for high cholesterol are:

• Diet: High intake of saturated and trans fats.
• Activity: Sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise.
• Genetics: Family history of high cholesterol or heart disease.
• Age and Gender: Cholesterol levels rise with age; gender differences exist.
• Obesity: Excess weight, particularly abdominal fat.
• Smoking: Tobacco smoke negatively affects cholesterol levels and blood vessels.
• Medical Conditions: Diabetes, hypothyroidism, and kidney diseases.
• Medications: Certain drugs can impact cholesterol levels.

Our full body private health checks are designed for people who want to take control of their health. Our tests are quick, accurate, convenient and completely stress-free. No waiting for an appointment, clinically safe procedures, no embarrassing questions, no long travel times and no busy waiting rooms.

Trained phlebotomists carry out all tests in over 350 venues across the UK and Ireland, so you get accurate professional health checks within 20 minutes of your home. Our private health checks include all the tests you need to take a proactive approach to monitoring and improving your health.

Any individual tests can be added to any full body health check. Just book one of our full body private health assessments and call us before your appointment to add an extra test.

Need help? Call free on 0800 652 2183 to speak to one of our team.