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Cholesterol Test

Also known as: Blood cholesterol; total cholesterol
Related tests: HDL, LDL, Triglycerides, Lipid profile

At a Glance

Why Get Tested?

To screen for risk of developing heart disease

When to Get Tested?

  • If you already know you have heart disease (angina, heart attack)
  • If there is a family history of high cholesterol, or of heart disease at an early age
  • If you have risk factors which put you at an increased chance of developing heart disease, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or you are a smoker
  • If you are taking drugs to lower your cholesterol level

    • Sample Required?

    A blood sample taken from a vein in the arm or a finger