Lipid Panel

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A Lipid Panel, also known as a Lipid Profile, is a blood test that measures the levels of specific fats and cholesterol in the blood, providing important information about an individual's risk of heart disease. The primary components of a lipid panel include:

Total Cholesterol: The overall amount of cholesterol in the blood, including both high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol: Often referred to as "good" cholesterol, HDL helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream.

LDL Cholesterol: Known as "bad" cholesterol, high levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood that, when elevated, can contribute to the hardening and narrowing of arteries.

This panel is used to assess cardiovascular risk and help guide decisions on lifestyle changes or medications to reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Recommendations for lipid panel testing frequency vary based on age, risk factors, and existing health conditions, but it is generally advised to have this test periodically to monitor and manage heart health.