Cholestrol

Overview:
The Cholesterol test measures the levels of cholesterol in the blood. Cholesterol is a fatty substance that is essential for building cells, but high levels of cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease. This test typically includes measurements of total cholesterol, LDL (low-density lipoprotein, "bad" cholesterol), HDL (high-density lipoprotein, "good" cholesterol), and triglycerides.

What it detects:
It detects the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides in the blood, helping assess the risk of cardiovascular diseases, including heart attacks and strokes.

Who should get it:
Individuals with risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, obesity, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease, should get this test. It is also commonly done as part of routine health screenings.

Sample required:
A blood sample is required for this test.

Fasting requirements:
Fasting is usually required for 9-12 hours before the test for accurate results, especially for triglycerides. However, this may depend on the specific guidelines followed by your healthcare provider.

Processing time:
Results available within 5 days.