Lower Your LDL
Quick Facts
- About 1 in 4 adults in the U.S. have high LDL cholesterol.
- LDL cholesterol is often called “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in your arteries. Over time, this can narrow your arteries and increase your risk for heart attack and stroke.
- LDL cholesterol can rise due to several factors, including genetics, lifestyle habits and other health conditions.
- Regular cholesterol checks are important because you may not feel any symptoms of high LDL.
Learn About Your LDL Cholesterol
Lowering your LDL cholesterol can help you live a longer life and enjoy a healthy tomorrow with your loved ones. It is important to talk with your health care professional and have your cholesterol checked. You can reduce your risk (PDF) | Spanish (PDF) of a heart attack or stroke by understanding and managing your LDL level.
My LDL Cholesterol Guide
What does my LDL number mean?
LDL and Repeat Heart Attacks and Strokes
Myths vs. Facts
Let's Talk About LDL Cholesterol
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LDL FAQ
Knowing your LDL cholesterol helps you stay on top of your health. Learn what affects your LDL, how to manage it, how often to get checked and more.
LDL cholesterol is often called “bad” cholesterol because it can build up in arteries. Over time, this can narrow the arteries and increase the risk for heart attack and stroke.
There isn’t one average or “normal” LDL level that works for everyone. Lower is generally better. Your LDL goal depends on factors such as your age, overall health, family history, diabetes and your history of heart attack or stroke. Your goal may be below 100 mg/dL, 70 mg/dL or even 55 mg/dL if you’re at very high risk for a heart attack or stroke. Your health care professional can help you find the goal that’s right for you.
High cholesterol usually has no symptoms. Your health care professional will order a blood test called a lipid panel to check your cholesterol levels. This may be a “fasting” or “non-fasting” test. It checks for many types of fat in the blood. The lipid panel results should include:
- LDL “bad” cholesterol
- HDL “good” cholesterol
- Triglycerides (most common type of fat)
- Total cholesterol
- Family history of high cholesterol, including genetic conditions such as familial hypercholesterolemia (FH), an inherited condition in which people are born with very high LDL cholesterol levels.
- Unhealthy eating habits
- Not being physically active
- Being overweight
- Tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke
Healthy habits such as eating well and staying active can help lower your LDL cholesterol and boost your heart health. If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, cholesterol-lowering medications may be needed. That’s great to know because you have many effective options. You and your health care professional can work together to find the treatment plan that works best for you.
You may be at higher risk for a heart attack or stroke if you have some health conditions along with high cholesterol. These conditions include Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic syndrome, HIV infection, a history of cancer or a current cancer diagnosis. Lowering your cholesterol can help reduce your risk of serious heart problems.
LDL "Bad" Cholesterol Treatment
Your health care professional can help you understand your heart attack and stroke risk, lower your LDL and find the best ways to manage it. They can guide you on lifestyle changes and discuss treatment options, including cholesterol-lowering medications if needed. By learning how to lower your cholesterol and understanding your personal risks, you can take meaningful steps to protect your heart health for yourself and someone you love.
Why should I know my LDL?
Questions For Your Doctor
Treatment Plan Discussion Guide
Cholesterol-Lowering Medications
Medications Discussion Guide
Healthy Eating for Lower Cholesterol
Patient Stories
Watch, Learn and Live
Explore illustrations and animations on cholesterol, heart attack and more in our interactive cardiovascular library.You are not alone: Connect with others who understand.
Resources for Caregivers
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