Making Sense of Your Cholesterol Tests

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where do you fit in?

The recommendations below are from the National Cholesterol Education Program, National Institutes of Health, and the American Heart Association. If you are diabetic, check with your doctor for desirable levels.

Desirable Levels
If all of your numbers meet these criteria, recheck your cholesterol every one to two years—your doctor will tell you what’s appropriate based on your age and health history.

• Total cholesterol: Less than 200 mg/dL
• LDL: Less than 130 mg/dL
• HDL: Above 60 mg/dL
• TG: Less than 150 mg/dL

Borderline Risk
If all or some of your results are in this group, ask your doctor for advice and have your numbers rechecked yearly.

• Total cholesterol: 200–239 mg/dL
• LDL: 130–159 mg/dL
• HDL: 40–59 mg/dL
• TG: 150–199 mg/dL

High Risk
If any of your numbers are at these levels, talk to your doctor about the proper treatment that most likely will include diet, exercise, and medication.

• Total cholesterol: 240 mg/dL and above
• LDL: 160 mg/dL and above
• HDL: less than 40 mg/dL
• TG: above 200 mg/dL

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