Is my cholesterol normal?

Cholesterol guidelines

Heart disease is the #1 cause of death worldwide. Cholesterol levels are a key risk factor.

Recommended levels (adults)

• Total: Under 200 mg/dL (desirable)
• LDL ("bad"): Under 100 mg/dL (optimal)
• HDL ("good"): Over 60 mg/dL (protective)
• Triglycerides: Under 150 mg/dL

Key facts

• 38% of American adults have high cholesterol (>200 mg/dL)
• HDL is the "good" cholesterol — higher is better
• Diet affects cholesterol by only ~25% — genetics play a bigger role
• Statins reduce LDL by 30-50% on average

Sources: AHA/ACC (2018 Cholesterol Guidelines), CDC, Framingham Heart Study, WHO.