Lipid Profile (Cholesterol)
Also known as: Cholesterol test, Lipid panel, cholesterol ka test, charbi ka test
Total cholesterol, LDL ('bad') cholesterol, HDL ('good') cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood.
Why it's ordered
Estimating heart attack and stroke risk, and checking whether cholesterol treatment is working.
Preparation
Fasting is not required for most people. Your doctor may ask for a 9–12 hour fast if triglycerides were high before.
Typical adult values
| Total cholesterol | below 200 mg/dL |
|---|---|
| LDL cholesterol | below 100 mg/dL is optimal; 190+ is very high |
| HDL cholesterol | 40+ mg/dL (men), 50+ mg/dL (women) |
| Triglycerides | below 150 mg/dL |
Ranges vary between labs and methods. Always use the range printed on your report.
If it's high
High LDL or triglycerides raise heart risk. What counts as 'too high' depends on your overall risk — diabetes, smoking, blood pressure and family history all matter.
If it's low
Low HDL is linked to higher heart risk.
Good to know
Your LDL target depends on your overall risk, not just the lab's range. People with diabetes or heart disease usually need lower targets.
Common questions
Do I need to fast for a lipid profile?
Fasting is not required for most people. Your doctor may ask for a 9–12 hour fast if triglycerides were high before.
Is a total cholesterol of 220 high?
Yes, 220 mg/dL is above the typical value of below 200 mg/dL. Always use the range printed on your report.
What is a good HDL level?
The typical value is 40+ mg/dL for men and 50+ mg/dL for women, and low HDL is linked to higher heart risk. Always use the range printed on your report.
Why is my LDL target different from the lab's range?
Your LDL target depends on your overall risk, not just the lab's range. People with diabetes or heart disease usually need lower targets.