LIPID PROFILE

Lipids are most commonly measured to assess cardiovascular risk. Maintaining desirable concentrations of lipids lowers the risk of heart attacks or strokes. Establishing appropriate treatment strategies and lipid goals require the results for each component of a lipid profile be considered in context with other risk factors including, age, sex, smoking status, family and personal history of heart disease. Lipid profile, including triglycerides and total, HDL, and LDL cholesterol, are modifiable factors sensitive to obesity. Recent studies suggest risk of prostate cancer may increase with obesity-related dyslipidemia, including a low HDL, high LDL and total cholesterol, and high triglycerides. Dyslipidemia may also be related to increased tumor grade, as evidenced by abnormal HDL level being a strong predictor of developing high-risk disease.

Lipid Profile is advised to for following analysis:

• Screening: The Lipid Profile helps in screening people for potential heart disease risks even before they develop symptoms. This testing becomes necessary in vulnerable individuals with a family history of heart disease, smokers, and people with conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure.
• Diagnosis: This profile is critical for identifying lipid imbalances and other related conditions. It detects hyperlipidaemia, which can lead to atherosclerosis, heart attacks, and strokes, by analyzing key lipid components such as LDL, HDL, and triglycerides.
• Monitoring: Following a diagnosis of a lipid disorder or heart disease, the Lipid Profile is used to assess treatment effectiveness. Regular monitoring ensures that lipid levels remain within the desired range, allowing for timely treatment adjustments.
• Assessing the Impact of Medical Conditions and Treatments: The Lipid Profile also assesses how diabetes, obesity, and certain medications influence lipid levels. This promotes heart health by allowing for more informed medical decisions.

Lipid Profile is generally advised if you are vulnerable to Cardiovascular disease due to following risk factors:

• Age of 45 years for men and 50-55 years for women
• High cholesterol levels
• History of cardiovascular problems
• Smoking cigarettes
• Being overweight or obese
• Unhealthy diet
• Poor physical activity
• Having high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Having a first-degree relative who developed heart disease at an early age (under 55 in men and under 65 in women)
• Diabetic or prediabetic

• You need to fast for at least 10-12 hours before giving samples for this comprehensive testing.
• Drink adequate water before sample collection.
• Avoid vigorous physical activity before the sample collection.
• Follow the preparatory instructions as guided by your doctor.

The Price of a Lipid Profile test is Rs. 630. However, cost of the test may fluctuate depending on following factors:

• Other tests advised along with lipid test
• Offers or discounts
• Empanelment of the patient

• Total Cholesterol:  It is used to determine the total amount of Cholesterol in your Blood, both good (HDL) and bad (LDL). High levels may indicate a higher risk of Heart disease, such as a Heart attack or Stroke. Managing Total Cholesterol is critical for Heart health.
• HDL Cholesterol: HDL Cholesterol, also known as "good" Cholesterol, helps remove excess Cholesterol from your Arteries. Higher levels of HDL lower the risk of Heart disease. Promoting HDL levels is critical for Cardiovascular health.
• LDL Cholesterol: LDL Cholesterol LDL, or "bad" Cholesterol, can cause plaque buildup in the Arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. Lowering LDL levels is crucial for avoiding heart disease and stroke. Managing LDL is critical for heart health.
• Triglyceride: Increased triglyceride levels can cause artery hardening and increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. Keeping triglyceride levels under control is critical for maintaining cardiovascular health.
• Non HDL Cholesterol: Non-HDL Cholesterol includes all "bad" cholesterol in the blood, such as LDL and VLDL. It is an important predictor of heart disease risk because it represents the total amount of cholesterol that can contribute to artery plaque formation. Lowering non-HDL cholesterol is critical for lowering heart disease risk.
• Cholesterol : HDL Ratio: This ratio evaluates total cholesterol levels in comparison to HDL cholesterol. A higher ratio indicates a higher risk of heart disease because it implies a higher proportion of "bad" cholesterol compared to "good" cholesterol. Maintaining a lower ratio improves heart health.

Your Lipid panel results show each type of Cholesterol and Triglyceride. These are quantified in milligrammes per decilitre of blood. Below are the optimal or target levels for each component of the standard Lipid test:

Lipid Panel Component	Normal Levels
Total cholesterol	Below 200 mg/dL
HDL (good) cholesterol	Above 60 mg/dL
LDL (bad) cholesterol	Below 100 mg/dL (For diabetic: Below 70 mg/dL)
Triglycerides	Below 150 mg/dL

Values that do not meet these criteria may be classified as borderline, intermediate, or high risk. In general, high levels of Total Cholesterol, LDL, and Triglycerides, as well as low levels of HDL, can increase the risk of Heart disease. The test results are interpreted in light of your overall health and other risk factors. Many doctors use risk calculators that consider your test results, age, and other factors to determine the best next steps.

Continuous Cholesterol monitoring, lifestyle changes, and/or medications may be recommended to Lower Cholesterol and reduce Cardiovascular risk, Cholesterol-lowering medications, such as statins, are most likely to be prescribed for patients with very high LDL or elevated LDL combined with other risk factors such as Diabetes or previous Cardiovascular problems.

Abnormally Low Cholesterol levels are uncommon and typically associated with a health condition that causes malnutrition. If you have risk factors for Heart disease or abnormal Lipid levels, you may need to have repeat testing at regular intervals in the future. Your doctor can suggest a schedule for future testing. If your lipid levels are normal, you may not require further testing for another five years, unless your overall health or risk factors change.

If your Triglyceride levels are high, you may need to undergo additional Cholesterol testing, such as direct LDL testing. Although not included in the standard Lipid panel, additional Lipid measurements, such as LDL particle testing might be advised. Additional tests, such as a Cardiac Stress Test, may be considered as part of a comprehensive Heart disease risk assessment.

The Blood Sample for Lipid Profile is taken in following steps:

• The area where the needle will be inserted to take your blood is cleaned with an antiseptic alcohol wipe. The hollow on the inside side of the elbow or the tip of the finger are the most common sites for this.
• A tourniquet or a band is tied around your upper arm to facilitate the access to the vein in your arm.
• A needle is used to puncture your vein. The blood sample is collected into a test tube attached to the needle. The needle may cause a small pinch or sting when it is inserted.
• Once the vial or test tube is filled, the blood sample collection for the test is finished and the needle is taken out.
• Finger pressure is applied on the puncture site to stop the bleeding and the band aid is applied at the site.

• Go to the Dr. B. Lal Lab website.
• Go to the “Book a test” tab.
• Select the “Lab Test” tab.
• Type “lipid profile” in the search bar.
• Click on the test.
• The test page with all the test details will show up.
• Click on “Book Now”.
• Login and verify your mobile number with OTP.
• Now enter your details. 
• Select date & time for booking lipid profile in Jaipur. 
• Check out.