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Learn how to get a

Free LDL-C Test*

Share Results with your doctor

*Terms and conditions apply. Programs subject to change; quantities may be limited.

Why is high LDL-C (bad
cholesterol) dangerous?

High LDL-C is a leading risk factor for a heart attack and stroke. If you have had a heart attack or stroke, you are most likely to experience another cardiovascular event within the first year.

Despite its dangers, There are

NO SYMPTOMS

OF HIGH LDL-C

plaque-buildup
plaque-buildup-mobile

What is LDL-C (and why is it called bad cholesterol)?

LDL-C stands for low-density lipoprotein cholesterol. Over time, high levels of LDL-C can lead to a buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can burst and cause reduced blood flow to the heart or brain. If high levels of LDL-C are left unchecked, this may lead to serious cardiovascular events, like heart attack or stroke.

If I already had a heart attack or stroke, am I still at risk of another?

Yes. If you have cardiovascular disease, you’re still at risk for future heart attacks or strokes, especially if your LDL-C is too high. Your risk level depends on different factors, including your medical history and whether you have additional conditions. Your doctor can help you determine your risk level.

Am I at very high risk?

Different factors can put you at very high risk for another heart attack or stroke (see the full chart below for some of the most common ones). If you are at very high risk, an LDL-C below 55 mg/dL is recommended by the American College of Cardiology to reduce the risk of another heart attack or stroke.

LDL-C below 55 mg/dL recommended for cardiovascular disease (CVD) at very high risk
LDL-C graphic-sm

How do I know if I’m at very high risk?

Based on 2018 AHA/ACC/Multisociety treatment guidelines

You are very high risk if you’ve had
1 major event icon
1 Major CARDIOVASCULAR EVENT + 2 OR MORE HIGH-RISK CONDITIONS
(High-risk conditions can include: age 65 or older, diabetes, high blood pressure)
Multiple major ASCVD events icon
MULTIPLE MAJOR CARDIOVASCULAR EVENTS
(Major events can include: heart attack, stroke, symptomatic peripheral artery disease, acute coronary syndrome)
Hypothetical male with high ldl-c reading a book to his granddaughter Hypothetical male with high LDL-C reading a book to his granddaughter

Why is testing LDL-C so important?

Having high LDL-C (bad cholesterol) can be dangerous. But you can't feel it. That's why the first steps to understanding your risk level are getting your LDL-C tested and talking to your doctor.

Terms and conditions apply. Programs subject to change; quantities may be limited.

You've heard their stories. Now learn how to

get a free LDL-C test

Terms and conditions apply. Programs subject to change; quantities may be limited.