Cholesterol Total
The Big Picture Score for Cardiovascular Screening
The Total Cholesterol Test (T-CHOL) provides the overall amount of cholesterol found in all the lipoprotein particles in your bloodstream. It is usually the first number checked during routine blood work, giving the doctor a quick, general idea of your cardiovascular risk profile.
Why Do You Need This Test?
The Total Cholesterol test is the most common test ordered during an annual physical or health screening. You need this test to:
- Initial Screening: It quickly identifies patients who may be at risk for heart disease and need a full, detailed Lipid Panel.
- Assess Overall Status: It provides a baseline measurement for managing weight, diet, and general heart health.
- Determine Your Ratio: It is used in combination with HDL to calculate the Total Cholesterol/HDL Ratio, a strong indicator of heart disease risk