Cholesterol Readings (Cont.)

Understanding LDL Cholesterol Readings

Low density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol readings measure the "bad" cholesterol. LDLs carry most of the cholesterol in the blood, and the cholesterol from LDL is the main source of damaging buildup and blockage in the arteries. The higher your LDL cholesterol reading is, the greater your risk of heart disease.
 
LDL Cholesterol Level
LDL Cholesterol Category
Less than 100 mg/dL
Optimal
100–129 mg/dL
Near optimal/above optimal
130–159 mg/dL
Borderline high
160–189 mg/dL
High
190 mg/dL and above
Very high
 
There's more to understanding your LDL cholesterol readings. Optimal LDL cholesterol readings also take into account your risk for heart disease.
 
(Click Heart Attack Risk or High Cholesterol Risk to determine your risk for having a heart attack.)
 
The following table outlines the recommended LDL cholesterol level based on your risk category.
 
If You Have
You Are in Category
And Your LDL Goal Is
Heart disease, diabetes, or a risk score higher than 20%
I. Highest risk
Less than 100 mg/dL
Two or more risk factors and a risk score 10%–20%
II. Next highest risk
Less than 130 mg/dL
Two or more risk factors and a risk score lower than 10%
III. Moderate risk
Less than 130 mg/dL
One or no risk factors
IV. Low to moderate risk
Less than 160 mg/dL
 
(Cholesterol Readings Continued: Page 4)
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Written by/reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Arthur Schoenstadt, MD