Non HDL Cholesterol
Understanding Non HDL Cholesterol
What is Non HDL Cholesterol?
The Non HDL Cholesterol test is a blood test that measures the levels of cholesterol other than high-density lipoproteins (HDL) in the body. This test is used to evaluate cardiovascular health, especially when you have risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, etc. It is often done as part of a routine health checkup or lipid profile.
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all body cells. It is essential for producing hormones and vitamin D and digesting food. HDL cholesterol is often called "good" cholesterol due to its protective effects on the cardiovascular system. Non-HDL cholesterol is called “bad” cholesterol as it includes various lipoproteins, such as low-density lipoproteins (LDL) cholesterol, very-low-density lipoproteins (VLDL) cholesterol, etc, contributing to atherosclerosis (the buildup of plaque in the arteries).
The Non HDL Cholesterol test measures all the cholesterol found in your blood that is not associated with high-density lipoproteins (HDL). Your doctor may suggest this test if you have risk factors contributing to high non-HDL cholesterol levels, including genetics, unhealthy diet, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. This test is vital for evaluating the overall risk of cardiovascular diseases, as it measures all the potentially harmful cholesterol types. Elevated non-HDL cholesterol levels are associated with an increased risk of plaque formation in the arterial walls (buildup of fat, cholesterol, and other substances in the walls of arteries). Plaque can narrow or block the opening of the blood vessels, leading to the hardening of the arteries called atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart conditions such as heart attack, stroke, and angina. Usually, overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is preferred for a non-HDL-C test. Do not eat or drink anything except water before the test.
Test result ranges are approximate and may differ slightly between labs depending on the methodology and laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them evaluate your medical condition, make diet, exercise, or medication recommendations, and formulate an overall treatment plan.
What is Non HDL Cholesterol used for?
The Non HDL Cholesterol test is done:
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As part of routine health checkups to measure the level of non-HDL cholesterol in the blood.
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To determine an individual's risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
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For monitoring the LDL levels in individuals already diagnosed with high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease.
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To detect early elevated levels in individuals with a family history of high cholesterol levels or premature heart disease.
What does Non HDL Cholesterol measure?
The Non HDL Cholesterol test looks for the “bad” cholesterol particles that are likely to contribute to heart problems. These bad particles include LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, and remnants of other cholesterol-carrying molecules. Cholesterol is a waxy substance that circulates in your bloodstream and is essential for various bodily functions. However, too much of “bad” types of cholesterol can build up in your arteries and increase the risk of heart conditions. LDL and VLDL cholesterol particles are often referred to as the "bad" cholesterol because they can stick to the walls of your arteries and form plaque, narrowing the arteries and restricting blood flow to your heart. By measuring non-HDL cholesterol, your doctor can assess your risk of heart disease and determine if any interventions or lifestyle changes are needed to protect your heart.
Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Non HDL Cholesterol
Frequently Asked Questions about Non HDL Cholesterol
Q. What does the Non HDL Cholesterol test measure?
Q. Do I need to fast before the Non HDL Cholesterol test?
Q. Why is a non-HDL cholesterol test important?
Q. How can I maintain healthy non-HDL cholesterol levels?
References
- Blaha MJ, Blumenthal RS, Brinton EA, et al. The importance of non–HDL cholesterol reporting in lipid management. Journal of Clinical Lipidology. 2008 Aug. 04; 2(4):267-273. [Accessed 09 Feb. 2023]. Available from: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1933287408002742
- Virani SS. Non-HDL cholesterol as a metric of good quality of care. The Texas Heart Institute Journal. 2011;38(2):160-162. [Accessed 09 Feb. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3066801/
- Lu W, Resnick HE, Jablonski KA, et al. Non-HDL Cholesterol as a Predictor of Cardiovascular Disease in Type 2 Diabetes: The Strong Heart Study. Diabetes Care. 1 2003 Jan. 01; 26(1):16-23. [Accessed 09 Feb. 2023]. Available from: https://diabetesjournals.org/care/article/26/1/16/22590/Non-HDL-Cholesterol-as-a-Predictor-of
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