Close
Thank you!
Your e-mail has been sent.
If you would like additional information regarding AstraZeneca's products, please contact the Information Center at AstraZeneca in the US at 1-866-272-0787, Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 6 PM ET, excluding holidays.
High cholesterol can contribute to
the buildup of plaque in your arteries.
The Cholesterol Connection
Cholesterol is a fatty substance in your blood, also called a lipid, that is naturally produced by your body. Whether it comes from the foods you eat or from your body, healthy amounts of cholesterol in your blood are okay. The problem is that when there’s too much cholesterol in your blood, it can build up in the walls of your arteries and form plaque.
Over time, plaque can clog and narrow your arteries, which may slow blood flow and reduce the supply of oxygen to your vital organs. This process of plaque development is made worse when the lining of your arteries, known as the endothelium, is damaged by other risk factors like high blood pressure, cigarette smoking, or diabetes.
Understanding Cholesterol
There are three important components of your lipid profile to discuss with your doctor or health care professional.
- LDL cholesterol (LDL-C)
LDL-C is called “bad” cholesterol because it plays a role in the development of plaque in your arteries. When there is too much LDL-C circulating in the blood, it can begin to collect in and on the artery walls, which may lead to atherosclerosis. As a rule, you want to keep your LDL-C low.
- HDL cholesterol (HDL-C)
HDL-C is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps return cholesterol to the liver, where it can be removed from the body. As a rule, you want your HDL-C to be high.
- Triglycerides
Triglycerides are another type of fat in your blood. Increased levels of triglycerides have been linked to an increased risk for atherosclerosis. As with LDL-C, it's important to keep triglycerides low.
Getting Your Cholesterol Tested
You can’t feel it or see it, so how do you know if you have high cholesterol? The only way to know for sure is by having a cholesterol screening test, also known as a fasting lipid profile. It’s a simple blood test that can be performed in your doctor’s office or in a lab. Talk with your doctor about your cholesterol, and then get tested.
Cholesterol Management
If your cholesterol levels are not normal, there are a number of options you can discuss with your doctor. The first suggestion will most likely be to improve your diet and get more exercise. This can help you lower your cholesterol, lose weight, have more energy, reduce stress and blood pressure, and control diabetes if you are diabetic. As always, talk with your doctor before starting a new diet or exercise program.
For some people, diet and exercise aren’t enough. If you’re in this category, be sure to ask your doctor about your options, including cholesterol-lowering medications.
Key Risk Factors
Cholesterol is just one risk factor that can contribute to the progression of atherosclerosis.
Learn more about key risk factors 
Get more facts about high cholesterol by downloading Cholesterol Basics 
(PDF - 308k) 
, or get tips for lowering your cholesterol with The Low-down on Managing Cholesterol (PDF - 458k) , or browse through our collection of other downloadable educational materials.
