Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that is essential in moderate amounts for maintaining the body's health.
In the bloodstream, cholesterol is carried by lipoproteins:
Low-density lipoproteins (LDL) – known as "bad" cholesterol
High-density lipoproteins (HDL) – known as "good" cholesterol
When LDL cholesterol levels are high, plaque can build up in the arteries, leading to serious conditions such as heart attacks and strokes.
HDL cholesterol helps remove cholesterol from the bloodstream by transporting it back to the liver, where it is broken down and eliminated. Higher levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.
What Causes High Cholesterol?
1. Unhealthy Lifestyle
Diet high in saturated and trans fats raises LDL levels. Saturated fats are mainly found in animal-based products and dairy. No more than 10% of daily calories should come from saturated fat.
Physical inactivity reduces HDL levels.
Smoking, especially in women, lowers HDL and raises LDL cholesterol.
Chronic stress may increase hormone levels that stimulate cholesterol production.
Excessive alcohol consumption raises total cholesterol.
2. Genetics
Some people inherit mutations that cause high LDL levels. This may result in familial hypercholesterolemia, which is harder to control even with lifestyle changes.
3. Underlying Medical Conditions
Certain conditions can increase LDL or decrease HDL levels:
Chronic kidney disease
Diabetes
HIV/AIDS
Hypothyroidism
Lupus
Menopause
Obesity
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Pregnancy
Sleep apnea
4. Medications
Certain drugs can increase LDL or lower HDL levels, including:
Antiretrovirals
Antiarrhythmic medications
Beta-blockers
Chemotherapy agents
Diuretics
Steroids
Who Is at Risk?
Risk depends on age, sex, genetics, and family history:
Age: Cholesterol can affect all ages, even children. However, it is more commonly diagnosed between ages 40–59, as liver function and metabolism slow with age.
Family history: Shared genes often result in similar cholesterol levels among relatives.
Sex:
Ages 20–39: men are at higher risk than women.
After this age range, women may have higher cholesterol due to hormonal changes like menopause, birth control use, or pregnancy.
Diagnosis and Prevention
A lipid panel (or lipid profile) is a blood test used to measure:
Total cholesterol
LDL ("bad") cholesterol
HDL ("good") cholesterol
Triglycerides
Atherogenic index
Fasting for 12–14 hours (except water) is recommended before the test.
General Testing Guidelines:
Children and teens (under 19): Begin screening between ages 9–11, repeat every 5 years. Start as early as age 2 if there’s a family history of cardiovascular disease.
Adults (20–65):
Every 5 years if low-risk
Men aged 45–65 and women aged 55–65: every 1–2 years
Over 65: yearly testing is recommended.
Preventive Strategies
Eat a balanced diet (limit saturated fats and processed foods)
Stay physically active
Maintain a healthy weight
Quit smoking
Manage stress
Get quality sleep
Limit alcohol consumption
Symptoms and Complications
High cholesterol is usually asymptomatic. In very high cases, it may cause:
Fatty deposits (xanthomas) on the skin
Grayish rings around the eyes (arcus senilis)
Without treatment, high cholesterol may lead to:
Atherosclerosis (arterial plaque buildup)
Carotid artery disease
Heart attack (myocardial infarction)
Peripheral arterial disease (PAD)
Stroke
Sudden cardiac arrest
For more information about cholesterol testing or to book your lipid panel, call our Call Center at (012) 910 or message us on WhatsApp at (055) 4000 910.
You can also register online at www.saglamaile.az or through our official social media accounts.