Definition

Cholesterol is a fatty substance in the body that serves several vital roles. It is a building block for various hormones and bile acids; and it plays a major role in stabilizing cell membranes. While proper cholesterol levels are important to good health, the evidence overwhelmingly demonstrates that elevated blood cholesterol levels greatly increase the risk of death due to heart disease.

Signs and Symptoms

Elevated blood cholesterol is usually without symptoms but may be associated with conditions such as high blood pressure, angina, and heart disease. It is currently recommended that total blood cholesterol level be less than 200mg/dl. In addition, it is recommended that LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol be less than 130mg/dl, HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol be greater than 35mg/dl, and triglyceride levels be less than 150mg/dl.

Causes

Elevated blood cholesterol levels are usually reflective of dietary and lifestyle factors, such as high saturated fat intake and lack of physical exercise, although it can also be due to genetic factors.