Love Your Heart! Lipids 101: Why Your Doctor Orders These Tests Every Year

Let’s talk about lipids, and why these tests are run on your yearly physical. 

Lipid testing provides essential information about cardiovascular risk and helps guide prevention and treatment strategies.

Here are the most commonly recommended lipid tests: 
– Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL-C): Elevated LDL-C contributes to plaque buildup in the arteries, increasing the risk of heart attacks and strokes. Levels above 4.9 mmol/L may indicate familial hypercholesterolemia, a genetic condition that significantly raises cardiovascular risk.
– Triglycerides (TG): High triglycerides are associated with insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and an increased risk of pancreatitis. Very high levels of 5.6 mmol/L may require immediate intervention. This test is usually impacted on whether the bloodwork was done fasting or not. 
– High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (HDL-C): While often referred to as “good cholesterol,” excessively high HDL-C does not necessarily provide additional benefits. Low HDL-C is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
– Non-High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (Non-HDL-C): This number (total cholesterol minus HDL) gives a better picture of your overall risk, since it includes all the “bad” cholesterol types that contribute to artery plaque.
– Apolipoprotein B (ApoB): This test measures the actual number of harmful cholesterol particles in your blood. A high ApoB level suggests a higher risk of heart disease, even if your LDL appears normal.
– Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]: This inherited form of cholesterol isn’t part of a routine test but can tell us about your risk. If your level is above 100 nmol/L (Canada) or 50 mg/dL (U.S.), you may need extra precautions.

If you have questions about your lipid levels or want to learn more, reach out so we can chat!