Understanding High Blood Lipids: 5 Key Facts You Need to Know
Did you know that 1 in 4 adults aged 18 and above has high blood lipid levels? Elevated blood lipids are a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, and understanding them is the first step to prevention.
Here are the 5 main definitions and classifications of high blood lipids:
1. Elevated Total Cholesterol
Total cholesterol is the sum of cholesterol in all blood lipoproteins, including LDL (“bad”) and HDL (“good”) cholesterol. High total cholesterol increases the risk of heart disease and stroke.
2. Elevated Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol
Known as “bad” cholesterol, excess LDL can form plaques inside blood vessels, narrowing arteries and increasing the risk of heart attacks.
3. Reduced High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol
HDL is the “good” cholesterol because it helps remove cholesterol from arteries. Low HDL levels mean your body is less effective at clearing excess cholesterol.
4. Elevated Triglyceride Levels
Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood. High levels thicken the blood and can lead to atherosclerosis (plaque buildup in arteries).
5. Mixed Hyperlipidemia
Some individuals have multiple lipid abnormalities (e.g., high LDL, high triglycerides, and low HDL) at the same time. This condition is called mixed hyperlipidemia and poses a particularly high cardiovascular risk.
✅ Regular health screenings, healthy diet, exercise, and proper medical consultation can help manage blood lipid levels and protect your heart.
