Lipid Profile

A lipid profile test, also known as lipid panel, assesses the level of specific fat molecules called lipids in the blood. This test determines the amount of total cholesterol, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and triglycerides.

A high level of lipids in your blood might lead to a buildup in arteries and blood vessels. This can potentially damage the arteries and increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases. 

With a lipid profile test, one can determine the risk of heart ailments, heart attack, cardiovascular issues, and stroke.

Apollo 24|7 offers a complete lipid profile test which includes six tests:

Total Cholesterol: It checks the overall level of cholesterol — LDL, VLDL and HDL cholesterol — in the blood.
HDL Cholesterol - Serum: It assesses HDL cholesterol, also known as the 'good' cholesterol. HDL helps erase the LDL cholesterol from the blood.
VLDL Cholesterol: VLDL cholesterol can be the reason for the increased risk of getting cardiovascular diseases. VLDL is not measured directly. Instead, it is calculated by assuming it is 20% of your triglycerides level.
Non-HDL Cholesterol: Non-HDL cholesterol is also known as LDL cholesterol or 'bad' cholesterol. Too much LDL can stick to the walls of arteries, which can increase the risk of stroke, heart attack, and atherosclerosis.
Cholesterol/HDL Ratio: It measures the ratio of cholesterol to HDL and offers insight into the risk of developing coronary heart diseases. If the ratio is higher, the risk is also higher. Having a ratio under 5:1 is desirable, and a ratio of 3.5:1 is considered extremely good.
Triglycerides - Serum: The fat that comes from the food you consume is broken down into smaller molecules known as triglycerides. If triglycerides are high, it indicates a risk of developing heart-related diseases. Factors such as obesity, drinking too much alcohol, unmanaged diabetes, and a high-calorie diet contribute to high triglycerides.
The lipid profile test is most commonly referred to as a cholesterol test.

Why should you get the cholesterol test done? 

• To screen for any kind of heart conditions or diseases
• Assessment of ongoing heart treatment 
   

Who should get the lipid profile test done?

• People with unhealthy habits like smoking and drinking 
• People who are obese and have a sedentary lifestyle
• People who are undergoing a heart treatment
• People who are 35 years and above 
• People with a family history of dyslipidemia

Medically reviewed by Dr. Ashfaque Ahmed , Cardiologist at Apollo Hospitals Canal Circular Road, Kolkata 

Frequently asked questions

How is the blood sample taken?

To take the blood sample, a tourniquet (elastic) band is placed tightly on the upper arm. The patient is asked to make a fist. This helps in the buildup of blood filling the veins and it becomes easy to collect the blood. The skin is cleaned before inserting the needle in the vein in order to prevent bacteria from entering. The needle is then inserted into the vein in the arm and the blood sample is collected in the vacutainer.

What are the risk factors for high cholesterol levels?

The risk factors for high cholesterol levels include high low-density cholesterol, smoking, obesity, an unhealthy diet, staying physically inactive, old age, hypertension, having a family history of premature heart disease, already having heart disease or history of heart attack, diabetes or prediabetes.

Why HDL-C is known as good cholesterol?

HDL-C which is high-density lipoprotein cholesterol is also known as good cholesterol as it takes up excess cholesterol. This excess cholesterol is carried out by HDL-C to the liver so that it can be removed from the body.

Why LDL-C is known as bad cholesterol?

LDL-C which is low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is also known as bad cholesterol as it deposits the excess of cholesterol in the walls of the blood vessels. This deposition can cause atherosclerosis.

Which foods can cause high cholesterol levels?

The foods that can cause high cholesterol levels include foods that are high in unhealthy fats i.e. saturated fats. The examples include deep-fried fast foods, processed foods such as biscuits and pastries, junk foods such as hamburgers, and pizza; coconut oil, butter etc.

Should I inform my doctor if I am taking any medicines?

Yes, please inform your doctor if you are taking any medicines or supplements as it might interfere with the test results.

What are the ideal cholesterol values for the lipid profile test?

Ideal total cholesterol values for lipid profile should be less than 200mg/dl. Any value more than 200 is considered high cholesterol and can lead to cardiovascular diseases.

Which foods can cause high cholesterol levels?

Deep-fried foods, sugary items, cakes and pastries, processed foods and food cooked using unhealthy oils can increase cholesterol levels.

What is atherosclerosis?

Atherosclerosis is the disease of the arteries which is characterised by the plaque that accumulates in the arteries of the walls.

What is the lipid profile test price?

Apollo 24|7’s lipid profile test price is quite nominal and one must get it done at regular intervals to keep their heart healthy.