The cholesterol profile, total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides, provides insight into your cardiovascular risk factors, with personal explanation from our doctors.
Interpreted by BIG-registered doctors
Achtergrond
Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the body and also absorbed through diet. It is essential for the construction of cell membranes and the production of certain hormones. The body transports cholesterol via various lipoproteins, of which HDL ("good" cholesterol) and LDL ("bad" cholesterol) are the best known.
The standard cholesterol profile measures total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, and triglycerides, expressed in millimoles per litre (mmol/L). For assessing cardiovascular risk, LDL and the ratio between LDL and HDL are particularly important. Interpretation is carried out according to the CVRM risk profile in line with NHG guidelines, where other factors such as age, blood pressure, BMI, and family history are also taken into account.
In het kort
4 markers in 1
Total, HDL, LDL, triglycerides
CVRM-compliant
NHG cardiovascular risk profile
Modifiable
Through diet, exercise, and weight
Genetic component
Also hereditarily determined
Veelvoorkomende redenen om te meten
Hieronder enkele situaties waarin een meting van Cholesterol inzicht kan bieden.
A test gives a snapshot of four important markers for cardiovascular risk assessment.
Cardiovascular disease at a young age in the family is an important reason to have cholesterol levels monitored.
Many people measure cholesterol periodically as part of preventive health monitoring.
Those who have worked on their diet, physical activity, or weight can see after a few months what effect this has had on their cholesterol profile.
From the age of 40–50, cholesterol is more commonly measured periodically as part of cardiovascular risk management.
For those who are taking or have taken cholesterol medication, periodic monitoring can provide insight into the effect.
Wat betekent uw uitslag
The cholesterol profile is measured in millimoles per litre (mmol/L). Interpretation of your values is carried out in line with the NHG guideline for cardiovascular risk management (CVRM), where your other risk factors are also taken into account.
Cholesterol values within or below the normal range give a favourable picture of your cardiovascular risk based on lipids. However, cholesterol is only one of the risk factors, blood pressure, BMI, smoking, diabetes, age, and family history also contribute to the overall risk assessment.
Elevated LDL or an unfavourable LDL/HDL ratio is flagged within the CVRM risk profile. Our doctor provides explanation and context for your result, so you can discuss it with your GP if you wish in the context of a broader risk profile.
Significantly elevated LDL or triglycerides may be consistent with familial hypercholesterolaemia or other causes requiring further investigation. Our doctor provides explanation and context for your result.
Hoe wij uw uitslag interpreteren
Our doctors interpret your cholesterol profile in accordance with the NHG CVRM guideline, taking other risk factors into account. You receive a report in plain language, as a starting point for your own insight or a conversation with your healthcare provider.
Related tests
A single marker gives one perspective. For a broader picture you can combine Cholesterol with a theme package or related markers.
Veelgestelde vragen
For the standard cholesterol profile, including triglycerides, fasting for 9 to 12 hours is generally recommended. Drink water only during this period.
HDL ("high density lipoprotein") is often called "good" cholesterol because it transports cholesterol from the blood back to the liver. LDL ("low density lipoprotein") is called "bad" cholesterol because elevated LDL increases the risk of vascular problems.
The cholesterol ratio is the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL. A lower ratio is more favourable.
ApoB measures the number of "risk" fat particles (LDL and related lipoproteins) in the blood. It is a supplementary, sometimes more precise measure than LDL alone, particularly relevant in metabolic syndrome or diabetes.
Significant lifestyle changes (diet, exercise, weight) can have a measurable effect within 6 to 12 weeks. Retesting after 3 to 6 months gives a good picture.
Saturated fats (mainly from animal sources) and trans fats can raise LDL. Unsaturated fats (such as in olive oil and oily fish), fibre, and plant-based foods are associated with more favourable cholesterol profiles.
You will receive a PDF report with your values and explanation. What you do with it, such as discussing it with your GP, adjusting your lifestyle, or taking no action, remains entirely your choice.
Yes, the report is written in medical language and contains all relevant laboratory information.
In the Health Guide
For €79 you receive the full cholesterol profile including personal explanation from a doctor, typically within 2 business days. No referral required.
Order Cholesterol for €79 →Want to test multiple markers at once?
Combine Cholesterol with other markers via Bloodworks Select. Blood draw costs are waived from €225.
Customer service
Available on weekdays from 9:00 – 17:00
