September is Cholesterol Education Month: What Do Your Numbers Means

Understanding key heart health metrics can empower you to take control of your cardiovascular risk

When it comes to heart health, cholesterol is something your doctor is always watching. You can’t feel high cholesterol, but it plays a big role in your risk for heart disease and stroke. That’s why knowing your numbers and what they mean is so important.

What Is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance in your blood. Your body needs some cholesterol to make hormones and build cells. But too much of the wrong type can clog your arteries, making it harder for blood to flow to your heart and brain.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 94 million American adults have cholesterol levels that are higher than recommended. Since there are no symptoms, the only way to know is through a blood test.

High cholesterol is one of the most important risk factors for heart disease, which is the number one cause of death worldwide. When too much “bad” cholesterol builds up in the arteries, it creates fatty deposits called plaque. Over time, this buildup can narrow the arteries or rupture, reducing blood flow to the heart and brain. This process, known as atherosclerosis, is the leading cause of heart attacks and strokes.

What Do the Numbers Mean?

When your doctor checks your cholesterol, you’ll usually see four main numbers:

• Total Cholesterol – This is your overall cholesterol. Ideally, it should be under 200 mg/dL.
• LDL (“Bad” Cholesterol) – This type can build up in your arteries. Lower is better, with a goal of less than 100 mg/dL for everyone and for less than 70 mg/dl for individuals with higher risk such as those with heart disease.
• HDL (“Good” Cholesterol) – This may help clear cholesterol from your blood. In general, higher is better, with 60 mg/dL or more offering lower risk.
• Triglycerides – Another type of fat in the blood. You want this number below 150 mg/dL.

Your doctor will look at all of these numbers together, along with other factors like age, blood pressure, diabetes, and family history.

As Dr. Christie Ballantyne, Professor of Medicine at Baylor College of Medicine, explains:

“Cholesterol numbers give us valuable insight, but they’re just one piece of the puzzle. We use them along with other risk factors to understand a person’s overall heart health.”

How Can You Improve Your Numbers?

The good news is that cholesterol is something you can manage. Even small changes can make a big difference.

• Eat smart: Choose fruits, vegetables, whole grains, beans, fish, and lean meats. Limit fried foods, processed snacks, and fatty meats.
• Move your body: Aim for at least 30 minutes of activity most days of the week. Walking counts!
• Maintain a healthy weight: Losing even a few pounds can help lower cholesterol.
• Quit smoking: If you smoke, quitting can raise your “good” cholesterol right away.
• Follow your doctor’s advice: Some people may also need medication, like statins, to keep their cholesterol under control.

As Dr. Ballantyne puts it:

“The earlier we identify and address high cholesterol, the greater the chance we have to prevent heart disease before it starts.”

Managing cholesterol is not just about numbers on a lab report, it’s about protecting your arteries, keeping your heart healthy, and lowering your risk of life-threatening disease. Cholesterol is a key part of your heart health story. By knowing your numbers and working with your doctor, you can take steps today that protect your heart for years to come.

Learn more about cholesterol numbers and heart disease at texasheart.org