Marshall Thomas, M.D., President, CEO and Chief Medical Officer

Have a Healthy Heart – Get Your Cholesterol Checked

Heart disease is very serious. It can cause a heart attack, a stroke, or other problems if it is not taken care of. There are certain things you can do to help prevent heart disease.  One of the most important and easiest things you can do is get a cholesterol test from your doctor.  Getting a cholesterol test can help you and your doctor determine if you are at risk for heart disease. 

What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is made by your liver and found in some foods.  It is needed to help your body make vitamin D, certain hormones, build cell walls, and create bile salts that help you digest fat. Sometimes, our bodies make more cholesterol than we need, and the extra cholesterol goes through our bloodstream. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can clog blood vessels and increase the risk for heart disease and stroke.

What Should my Cholesterol Numbers be?

► Your total cholesterol should be less than 200 mg/dl.
► Your HDL (“good” cholesterol) goal should be at least 40 mg/dl.
► Your LDL (“bad” cholesterol) goal should be less than 130 mg/dl.

What else can I do to Prevent Heart Disease?

Here are some more helpful hints for preventing heart disease. 

• See your doctor for a checkup.  This is important even if you feel well. Ask your doctor about your risk for heart disease. Remember to talk with your doctor about when to get your cholesterol checked.   
• Quit smoking. If you smoke, quitting can cut your risk of heart disease in half. Ask your doctor for help.
• Exercise 3 to 4 times a week. Exercise, like walking, will make your heart stronger. But start slowly if you haven't exercised in a while.
• EEat healthy foods. Eat more fruits and vegetables. Try not to eat foods that have a lot of fat, like potato chips and cookies.
• If you have questions about heart disease, getting your cholesterol checked, or any of these prevention methods, talk to your primary care provider (PCP)