What is Cholesterol?

Cholesterol is waxy, fat-like substance that your body needs to survive. There are two kinds of cholesterol: high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). HDL is known as the “good” cholesterol and LDL is known as the “bad” cholesterol. When talking about high cholesterol LDL is what is being referred to. When there is too much cholesterol in your blood it could build up on the walls of your arteries and form blockages.

Why is screening your cholesterol so important?

At the moment there seventy-one million American adults that have high cholesterol, yet only 1/3 of these adults have it under control. Having too much cholesterol in your blood is one of the top risk factors for heart disease and stroke. These are two leading causes of death in the United States.

The purpose of screening is to detect to high cholesterol. When you have high cholesterol there are no symptoms or signs that display it. A blood test is how you can check your cholesterol level. It is recommended by The National Cholesterol Education Program that adults over the age of 20 have their cholesterol checked every 5 years.

You can also make daily changes to your lifestyle to prevent or treat high cholesterol which includes: having a healthy diet, exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, and not smoking.

Here are at AFC of Bridgeport we have full laboratory certified by the state on the premises that will allow us to test your blood as well as any many other tests that are available. Based on the results our doctors could then help you take the next step necessary to keep your health under control. No appointments are necessary and walk-ins are welcome. Call us at 203-333-4400 with any questions or visit us at 161 Boston Avenue