HDL cholesterol

Understanding the marker

HDL particles help transport cholesterol back to the liver. The test measures the cholesterol carried in those particles.

HDL cholesterol is associated with cardiovascular risk but is not a stand-alone treatment target. A high value does not cancel risk from LDL, smoking or high blood pressure, and very high HDL is not reliably protective.

What does high HDL cholesterol mean?

A high HDL value does not necessarily give additional protection. It is read with LDL, triglycerides and other cardiovascular risk factors, rather than used as a general sign of good health.

What does low HDL cholesterol mean?

Low HDL is one part of cardiovascular risk assessment. LDL, triglycerides and the wider health history matter too; the result alone does not establish a cause or a treatment plan.