HDL Cholesterol Test

HDL (High-density lipoprotein) cholesterol test is a blood test that measures the level of HDL cholesterol in your blood. HDL cholesterol is often referred to as "good cholesterol" because it helps to remove excess cholesterol from your blood vessels and transports it to your liver for processing and removal.

A doctor may order an HDL cholesterol test as part of a lipid panel, which also includes measurements of total cholesterol, LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, and triglycerides. HDL cholesterol levels of 60 milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL) or higher are considered optimal, as higher levels of HDL cholesterol are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

If your HDL cholesterol levels are too low, your healthcare provider may recommend lifestyle changes such as exercise, a healthy diet, and weight loss, as well as medications to help increase your HDL cholesterol levels.