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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About High
Blood Cholesterol
What is high blood cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in your body and is
needed for the body to function normally. Your body makes enough
cholesterol for its needs. When there is too much cholesterol in your
body—because of diet and the rate at which the cholesterol is
processed—it is deposited in arteries, including those of the heart,
which can lead to narrowing of the arteries and to heart disease.
Find out more about high blood cholesterol.
What are symptoms of high blood cholesterol?
High blood cholesterol itself does not cause symptoms, so many people are
unaware that their cholesterol level is too high. Simple blood tests can be
done to check your cholesterol. If it is found that you have high
cholesterol, your doctor may prescribe various treatments depending on your
risk for developing heart disease. Find out more
about high blood cholesterol.
What can you do to about high blood cholesterol?
There are several things that you can do to keep your blood cholesterol
normal. These include keeping a healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight,
and being physically active. Other things such as not smoking also are
important. These actions should be a part of your regular lifestyle. If you
are found to have high blood cholesterol, your doctor may prescribe
medications, in addition to lifestyle changes, to help bring it under
control. You should discuss with your health care provider the best ways for
you to address these issues. Find out more about
preventing and controlling high blood cholesterol.
What is the burden of high blood cholesterol in America?
Approximately 17% of the U.S. adult population has high blood cholesterol.
All persons, including children, can develop high blood cholesterol. It is a
major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the
United State. See more facts and statistics.
What is the CDC doing to address high blood cholesterol?
The CDC has several programs that address the prevention and control of high
blood cholesterol. They include working with state health departments,
working with clinics, and laboratory activities. For more information on
these programs, please see our CDC addresses
high blood cholesterol section.
What is the burden of high blood cholesterol in America?
Approximately 17% of the U.S. adult population has high blood cholesterol.
All persons, including children, can develop high blood cholesterol. It is a
major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death in the
United State. See more facts and statistics.
Page last reviewed: April 9, 2009
Page last modified: April 9, 2009
Content source: Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention,
National Center for Chronic Disease Prevention and
Health Promotion
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