The Basics
Too much cholesterol (“koh-LEHS-tuh-rahl”) in your blood can cause heart disease or a heart attack. You could have high cholesterol and not know it.
The good news is that it’s easy to get your cholesterol checked. And if your cholesterol is high, you can take steps to control it.
Who needs to get their cholesterol checked?
- Men age 35 and older
- Men under age 35 who have heart disease or risk factors for heart disease
- Women who have heart disease or risk factors for heart disease
How do I know if I have risk factors for heart disease?
Risk factors for heart disease include:
- A family history of early heart disease
- Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis)
- Smoking
- Diabetes
- High blood pressure
- Obesity
Talk to your doctor or nurse about your risk factors for heart disease. Ask about getting your cholesterol checked.
