Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel

The Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel is a comprehensive blood test that measures the fats (lipids) circulating in your bloodstream. These fats—including cholesterol and triglycerides—play essential roles in your body's normal function, but unhealthy levels can significantly increase your risk of heart disease, heart attack, and stroke.

Since high cholesterol usually develops without noticeable symptoms, many people are unaware they have elevated levels until serious cardiovascular disease has already begun. A Lipid Panel provides valuable insight into your heart health, allowing you and your healthcare provider to identify risk factors early and develop a personalized plan to help protect your cardiovascular health.

Whether you're monitoring an existing condition, managing your cholesterol, or simply taking a proactive approach to your health, a Lipid Panel is one of the most important preventive screening tests available.

What Does This Test Measure?

The Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel evaluates four key markers that work together to provide a complete picture of your cardiovascular health.

Total Cholesterol

Measures the total amount of cholesterol in your bloodstream.

While cholesterol is essential for building healthy cells and producing hormones, elevated levels can increase the risk of plaque buildup inside your arteries.

HDL Cholesterol (High-Density Lipoprotein)

Often called "good cholesterol," HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from your bloodstream and carries it back to the liver for processing.

Higher HDL levels are generally associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

LDL Cholesterol (Low-Density Lipoprotein)

Known as "bad cholesterol," LDL can contribute to plaque buildup within your arteries, narrowing blood vessels and increasing the risk of:

Heart attack
Stroke
Peripheral artery disease

Managing LDL cholesterol is one of the most important steps in protecting long-term cardiovascular health.

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat your body uses for energy.

Elevated triglyceride levels may increase your risk of heart disease, particularly when combined with high LDL cholesterol or low HDL cholesterol. High triglycerides may also be associated with diabetes, obesity, excessive alcohol intake, and certain metabolic conditions.

Who Should Consider This Test?

The Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel is recommended for:

Adults completing annual wellness exams
Individuals with a family history of heart disease or high cholesterol
People with diabetes or prediabetes
Individuals with high blood pressure
Those who are overweight or obese
Current or former smokers
Individuals taking cholesterol-lowering medications
Anyone committed to preventive healthcare and heart health

Routine screening helps establish a baseline and monitor changes over time, even if you feel healthy.

Why Is It Important?

Helps estimate your risk for heart disease and stroke and guides treatment decisions.

What's Included

Common Questions