Quick Facts
- Sample: Blood
- Fasting: No fasting required
- Turnaround: 1-2 days. May take longer due to weather, holidays, or lab delays.
What This Test Measures
This test measures your level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often called "good" cholesterol, directly in a blood sample. The result is reported as a concentration value, not a calculated figure, giving you a clear measurement of the HDL cholesterol circulating in your bloodstream.
HDL cholesterol helps carry low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol away from your arteries. This test reports only your HDL cholesterol level, it does not include LDL, total cholesterol, or triglyceride measurements.
Benefits
- Provides a direct measurement of your HDL cholesterol level
- Uses a simple blood draw with no fasting required
- Delivers results in as little as 1 to 2 days
- Offers information relevant to cardiovascular health discussions
- Gives you a data point to share with your healthcare provider
Who Is This Test For?
- People with a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
- Those previously diagnosed with high cholesterol
- Individuals who are overweight or obese
- People with a sedentary lifestyle
- Those with a history of smoking or tobacco use
- Individuals with high blood pressure or diabetes
How It Works
- Order Your Test Online
- Visit a Local Lab
- Get Results Online
FAQ
1. What does this test measure?
This test measures your level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, often called "good" cholesterol, directly in a blood sample. The result is reported as a concentration value, not a calculated figure. HDL cholesterol helps carry low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol away from your arteries, but this test reports only your HDL level, it does not include LDL, total cholesterol, or triglyceride measurements. The measurement can help a healthcare provider evaluate factors related to your cardiovascular health as part of a broader clinical picture, but it does not diagnose any condition on its own.
2. Who should consider this test, and when?
People with a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease, those previously diagnosed with high cholesterol, individuals who are overweight or obese, people with a sedentary lifestyle, those with a history of smoking or tobacco use, and individuals with high blood pressure or diabetes may benefit from this test. Many people with cholesterol imbalances do not experience noticeable symptoms, so this test is often ordered as part of a routine check-up to support ongoing monitoring rather than in response to specific symptoms. It does not replace a full medical evaluation.
3. Do I need to fast before this test?
No fasting is required. You should maintain your normal diet and a stable weight for a week prior to testing. If possible, medications should be discontinued for three to four weeks before the test, but you should check with your physician before stopping any medication. Testing should not be performed until three months after a myocardial infarction or a similar traumatic episode, such as severe infection or inflammation.
4. How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically available in 1 to 2 days. Turnaround may take longer depending on weather, holidays, or other lab delays.
5. How do I interpret the results?
The meaning of your HDL cholesterol result depends on your individual health history, symptoms, medications, and other laboratory results. A single result should be considered alongside these factors rather than on its own. An abnormal result does not automatically confirm a condition, and a normal result does not rule one out.
Disclaimer: Reference ranges may vary by laboratory. Listed ranges are general guidelines and may differ from those used by the performing lab. Always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.
6. What should I do if my results are abnormal?
Review results that fall outside the expected range with a qualified healthcare provider. They can help determine whether additional evaluation or testing may be appropriate based on your overall health picture. This test result alone does not provide a complete clinical conclusion.
7. How often should I get tested?
Testing frequency should be determined as directed by your healthcare provider, based on your individual health needs and history.
Pre-test preparation
No fasting is required. You should be on a normal diet and maintain a stable weight for a week prior to testing. Medications should be discontinued for three to four weeks if possible. Check with your physician before stopping any medications. Testing should not be performed until three months after a myocardial infarction or a similar traumatic episode, such as severe infection or inflammation.
Do not stop prescribed medication unless instructed by your healthcare provider.
