Simon Williams

Head of Communications and Policy, HEART UK – The Cholesterol Charity

Cholesterol is a type of blood fat (lipid). We all need some cholesterol in our blood to stay healthy, but too much can lead to serious health problems in the future, including heart attacks and strokes. 

Anyone can have high cholesterol – even if you are young, slim, eat well and exercise. That’s because high cholesterol can be caused by different things. It can be caused by an unhealthy lifestyle, but it can be genetic too. 

High cholesterol is very common, but most people don’t know they have it because it doesn’t usually have any symptoms. That’s why everyone should have a cholesterol check. 

Another type of blood fat called triglycerides can also become raised and lead to health problems, you can have these checked too.  

If your cholesterol is raised, there are treatments available if you need them. But it’s usually possible to lower cholesterol naturally with healthy lifestyle changes. 

High cholesterol doesn’t usually have any signs or symptoms, so the only way to know your cholesterol levels is to get a check. 

Why get a cholesterol check? 

We recommend that all adults should get a cholesterol check – no matter what your age or how healthy you feel. 

High cholesterol doesn’t usually have any signs or symptoms, so the only way to know your cholesterol levels is to get a check. 

It’s possible to have raised cholesterol even if you’re young, fit, and feel healthy – because your cholesterol levels depend on your genes as well as your lifestyle.  

A cholesterol check involves a simple blood test. Your doctor should also check your levels of another fat called triglycerides, as these also affect your heart health.  

High cholesterol can lead to heart attacks and strokes. A cholesterol test can be used along with other simple tests to give a good idea of your heart health and if you’re at risk of health problems. These include a blood pressure test and finding out your BMI and waist measurement. The results will show you if you need to make any lifestyle changes or need treatment.