Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol, Total

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: Cardio IQ Cholesterol, Total , Cholesterol Total Cardio IQ

Cholesterol, Total

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But if you have too much in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood and stick to the walls of your arteries. This is called plaque. Plaque can narrow your arteries or even block them. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. There are usually no signs or symptoms that you have high blood cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test. You are likely to have high cholesterol if members of your family have it, if you are overweight or if you eat a lot of fatty foods. You can lower your cholesterol by exercising more and eating more fruits and vegetables. You also may need to take medicine to lower your cholesterol.
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The Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol, Total test contains 1 test with 1 biomarker.

Brief Description: The Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test is a specialized laboratory assay designed to measure the total cholesterol levels in the blood. It is a key component of comprehensive lipid panel assessments that evaluate an individual's risk for cardiovascular disease.

Also Known As: Blood Cholesterol Test, Total Cholesterol Test

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: If a cholesterol measurement is to be performed along with triglycerides, the patient should be fasting for at least 9 hours.

This is a Cardio IQ™ test and will likely need an additional 5-7 days for processing compared to the standard version of the test, Cholesterol Total #334.

When is a Cholesterol Total test ordered?

Cholesterol testing is advised as a screening test for all persons without heart disease risk factors at least once every four to six years. It is frequently combined with a standard physical examination.

When a person has one or more risk factors for heart disease, their cholesterol is tested more frequently.

Children and young people should have their lipid profiles checked for elevated cholesterol. Between the ages of 9 and 11, and again between the ages of 17 and 21, they should be tested. Children and teenagers who are at a higher risk of developing heart disease as adults should be screened with a lipid profile earlier and more frequently. A family history of heart disease or health problems such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or being overweight are some of the risk factors, which are comparable to those in adults. Cholesterol testing is indicated when a child's BMI is at or above the 85th percentile. Laboratory testing to evaluate cholesterol levels may be recommended every two years for an obese adolescent.

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, high-risk children should receive their first cholesterol test between the ages of 2 and 8. Children under the age of two are not eligible for testing. The fasting test should be repeated in three to five years if the initial results are not alarming.

Total cholesterol tests may be conducted at regular intervals as part of a lipid profile to assess the success of lipid-lowering lifestyle changes like diet and exercise, or to determine the efficacy of medication therapy like statins. Adults on statins should have a fasting lipid profile done 4 to 12 weeks after commencing therapy and then every 3 to 12 months after that to ensure that the drug is effective, according to the American College of Cardiology and the American Heart Association.

What does a Cholesterol Total blood test check for?

Cholesterol is a vital component of life. It creates cell membranes in all of the body's organs and tissues. Hormones required for development, growth, and reproduction are produced using it. It produces bile acids, which are necessary for food absorption. The total cholesterol transported in the blood by lipoproteins is measured by the cholesterol test.

Lipoproteins are complex particles that carry a small quantity of cholesterol in the blood. Each particle comprises a mixture of protein, cholesterol, triglyceride, and phospholipid molecules, and they are classed as high-density lipoproteins, low-density lipoproteins, or very low-density lipoproteins based on their density. LDL-C particles, also known as "bad" cholesterol, deposit cholesterol in tissues and organs whereas HDL-C particles take excess cholesterol away for disposal.

It is critical to monitor and maintain good cholesterol levels in order to stay healthy. The body manufactures the cholesterol it needs to function correctly, although some cholesterol comes from food. If a person has a hereditary propensity to high cholesterol levels or consumes too many foods high in saturated and trans unsaturated fats, the amount of cholesterol in their blood may rise, posing a health risk. Plaques on the walls of blood arteries may form as a result of excess cholesterol in the circulation. Plaques can constrict or block blood channel openings, resulting in artery hardening (atherosclerosis) and an increased risk of a variety of health problems, including heart disease and stroke.

Lab tests often ordered with a Cholesterol Total test:

When a Cardio IQ Cholesterol Total test is ordered, it's typically part of a broader assessment of lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health. Here are some tests commonly ordered alongside it:

  1. Lipid Panel:

    • Purpose: To measure levels of various types of cholesterol and triglycerides, including LDL (low-density lipoprotein), HDL (high-density lipoprotein), and VLDL (very-low-density lipoprotein).
    • Why Is It Ordered: To provide a comprehensive view of lipid metabolism and to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease.

  2. LDL Particle Size and Number (LDL-P):

    • Purpose: To measure the number and size of LDL particles.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Small, dense LDL particles are considered more atherogenic (likely to form plaques in arteries) and may indicate a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, even if total LDL levels are normal.

  3. High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP):

    • Purpose: To detect low levels of inflammation in the body.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess cardiovascular risk, as inflammation plays a significant role in atherosclerosis.

  4. Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a):

    • Purpose: To measure the level of Lp(a), a type of lipoprotein associated with increased risk of heart disease.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To further assess cardiovascular risk, especially in individuals with a family history of heart disease.

  5. Apolipoprotein B (ApoB):

    • Purpose: To measure the level of ApoB, a protein found in LDL and VLDL particles.
    • Why Is It Ordered: ApoB levels can provide additional information on cardiovascular risk, particularly in individuals with metabolic syndrome or diabetes.

  6. Homocysteine:

    • Purpose: To measure the level of homocysteine, an amino acid linked to heart disease and stroke.
    • Why Is It Ordered: Elevated homocysteine levels can be a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases and may require dietary and medical intervention.

  7. Glucose and Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c):

    • Purpose: To measure blood sugar levels and long-term glucose control.
    • Why Is It Ordered: To assess for diabetes or prediabetes, as impaired glucose metabolism can impact lipid levels and cardiovascular risk.

These tests, when ordered alongside a Cardio IQ Cholesterol Total test, provide a comprehensive evaluation of cardiovascular health and risk factors. They help in accurately assessing the risk of heart disease, guiding lifestyle and medical interventions, and monitoring the effectiveness of treatment strategies. The specific combination of tests will depend on the individual’s risk factors, symptoms, and medical history.

Conditions where a Cholesterol Total test is recommended:

The Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test is indispensable for assessing cardiovascular risk and diagnosing conditions such as:

  1. Hyperlipidemia: Elevated total cholesterol levels, particularly elevated LDL cholesterol levels, are indicative of hyperlipidemia, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.

  2. Atherosclerosis: Elevated cholesterol levels contribute to the formation of arterial plaque, a hallmark of atherosclerosis—a precursor to heart attacks and strokes.

How does my health care provider use a Cholesterol Total test?

The total cholesterol test is used alone or in conjunction with a lipid profile to assist forecast an individual's risk of developing heart disease and to help determine what treatment may be required if the risk is borderline or high. It can also be used to evaluate the effectiveness of treatment once it is started as part of a lipid profile

Cholesterol testing is considered a normal aspect of preventative healthcare because high blood cholesterol has been linked to artery hardening, heart disease, and an increased risk of mortality from heart attacks.

The results of the cholesterol test and other components of the lipid profile, as well as other recognized heart disease risk factors, are utilized to build a treatment and follow-up strategy. Treatment options may include lipid-lowering medicines such as statins or lifestyle changes such as diet and exercise regimens.

What do my Cholesterol test results mean?

Healthy lipid levels, in general, aid in the maintenance of a healthy heart and reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. To evaluate a person's overall risk of heart disease, if therapy is necessary, and, if so, which treatment will best serve to minimize the person's risk, a healthcare practitioner will consider total cholesterol results and the other components of a lipid profile, as well as other risk factors.

Most Common Questions About the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test:

Purpose and Indications for the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total Test

What is the primary purpose of the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test?

The Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test primarily measures the total cholesterol levels in the blood, giving insights into an individual's risk for heart disease.

Who should consider undergoing the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test?

Individuals at risk of cardiovascular diseases or those with a family history of high cholesterol or heart diseases should consider this test. It's also typically recommended for adults of certain age groups to monitor and manage their cholesterol levels.

Interpreting the Results

What do the results of the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test indicate?

The results provide the total cholesterol level in the blood. Elevated levels indicate a higher risk for heart diseases and may necessitate further tests to determine the specific types of cholesterol (LDL, HDL) and triglyceride levels.

If my Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test levels are high, does it mean I have heart disease?

Not necessarily. While high total cholesterol levels increase the risk of heart disease, it doesn't confirm its presence. Other tests, medical history, and physical exams are essential for a definitive diagnosis.

Dietary Influence and Recommendations

Can my diet impact the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test results?

Yes, consumption of saturated fats, trans fats, and cholesterol-rich foods can raise total cholesterol levels. It's advised to follow a balanced diet with limited saturated and trans fats to maintain healthy cholesterol levels.

If my Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test results are not optimal, will dietary changes help?

Diet plays a crucial role in cholesterol management. Reducing saturated fats, increasing fiber intake, and consuming more omega-3 fatty acids can positively influence cholesterol levels.

Follow-up and Treatment

What should be the next step after receiving the results of my Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test?

If cholesterol levels are elevated, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional. They might recommend lifestyle changes, further tests, or medication, depending on the results and other risk factors.

Are there medications available to manage high cholesterol levels identified through the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test?

Yes, several medications, like statins, can effectively lower cholesterol levels. A healthcare provider will prescribe the most suitable medication based on the test results and individual health profile.

Conditions and Medications Influencing the Test

Can other medical conditions impact the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test results?

Yes, conditions like hypothyroidism, liver diseases, or genetic disorders can influence cholesterol levels. It's essential to inform the healthcare provider about any existing conditions before the test.

Do medications affect the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test outcomes?

Certain medications, such as steroids, beta-blockers, and diuretics, can influence cholesterol levels. It's crucial to inform the healthcare professional about any medications taken before undergoing the test.

Lifestyle and Recommendations

Does smoking or alcohol consumption affect the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test results?

Smoking can lower HDL (good cholesterol) and is a risk factor for heart disease. Excessive alcohol intake can lead to higher triglyceride levels and potential heart risks. Both can indirectly influence the total cholesterol results.

Is exercise beneficial for managing cholesterol levels detected by the Cardio IQ™ Cholesterol Total test?

Yes, regular exercise can raise HDL (good cholesterol) and lower LDL (bad cholesterol), positively impacting the total cholesterol levels and overall heart health.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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