These are the levels that are set by the ATP III. They are based on the risk for heart disease found in various studies. Understanding these gives you a notable upper-hand in the fight against high cholesterol and heart disease.
(In mg/dL)
| LDL Cholesterol | HDL Cholesterol | Total Cholesterol | Triglycerides |
| <100 Optimal | < 40 Low | < 200 Desirable | < 150 Normal |
| 100-129 above optimal | > 60 High | 200-239 Borderline High | 150-199 Borderline High |
| 130-159 Borderline High | > 240 High | 200-499 High | |
| 160-189 High | > 500 Very High | ||
| > 190 Very High |
As we stated in the previous post the main target for whether or not cholesterol therapy is recommended is based on your LDL cholesterol score.
LDL Target Goals
- Risk Factors LDL Goal (in mg/dL)
- CHD or CHD Equivalents < 100
- Multiple Risk Factors (2 or more) < 130
- 0-1 Risk Factors < 160
CHD Equivalents – As shown in the chart above these modify your LDL Goal
- Currently having a disease that involves atherosclerosis in other parts of the body (leg, neck, etc)
- Diabetes
- A combination of other risk factors that put you at >20% risk of having CHD in the next 10 years.
Risk Factors – These also Modify your LDL Cholesterol Goals
- Cigarette Smoking
- High Blood Pressure (>140/90 mmHG or on High blood pressure medication)
- Low HDL cholesterol (<40 mg/dL)
- Family History of Early CHD (Father or brother who had a heart attack before age 55 or a mother or sister who had a heart attack before age 65)
- Age
- Male: > 45
- Female: > 55