CHOLESTEROL LDL DIRECT

The Primary Driver of Arterial Plaque Buildup

The LDL Cholesterol Test is the single most important metric for determining your risk of heart attack and stroke. LDL stands for Low-Density Lipoprotein, and it is universally known as the "Bad Cholesterol."

LDL particles act like "delivery trucks" that transport cholesterol from the liver to the rest of the body. When there are too many LDL particles, they get stuck in the artery walls, leading to the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. This plaque narrows the arteries and is the direct cause of most cardiovascular events.

Why Do You Need This Test?

The LDL test is the main measurement used by doctors and guidelines (like those from the ACC/AHA) to make treatment decisions. You need this test to:

• Determine Statin Eligibility: Your LDL level is the primary factor in determining if you should start lipid-lowering medication (Statins).
• Set Personalized Targets: The desirable LDL goal changes dramatically based on your personal risk factors (diabetes, previous heart attack, or high blood pressure).
• Monitor Treatment Success: It tracks the effectiveness of diet, exercise, and medication in lowering your cardiovascular risk over time.