Lipid Profile
A lipid Profile is a blood test that measures the levels of various types of fats (lipids) in the blood. It typically includes measurements of:
- Total cholesterol: This is the sum of all types of cholesterol in the blood, including HDL, LDL, and VLDL cholesterol.
- HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein): Often referred to as "good" cholesterol because it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the arteries, reducing the risk of heart disease.
- LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein): Often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because it can build up in the walls of arteries and form plaques, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Triglycerides: These are another type of fat found in the blood. High levels of triglycerides are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.
- Non-HDL cholesterol: This is calculated by subtracting HDL cholesterol from total cholesterol. It gives an indication of the amount of LDL and other non-HDL cholesterol in the blood.