Total cholesterol is the overall amount of waxy, fat-like substances in the blood, including both good and bad cholesterol, and is used to evaluate heart and vascular health.
Read moreTotal cholesterol measures the combined levels of all cholesterol types in the bloodstream, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL, “bad” cholesterol), high-density lipoprotein (HDL, “good” cholesterol), and other lipid particles. Cholesterol is an essential component of cell membranes and is needed for hormone production and vitamin D synthesis. However, when cholesterol levels become elevated, fatty deposits can accumulate inside arteries, leading to their narrowing and hardening (atherosclerosis). This increases the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and circulatory problems. The total cholesterol test is routinely used to assess cardiovascular risk and to monitor the effectiveness of lifestyle changes or lipid-lowering therapy.