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Cholesterol Basics
Cholesterol Numbers, Decoded
What your lipid panel actually reveals - and what it doesn't. A plain-language guide to the numbers that matter for your heart.
Key takeaway
Total cholesterol is a starting point, not the whole story. ApoB and particle counts often reveal cardiovascular risk that a standard LDL number alone understates.
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Cholesterol Numbers, Decoded
What your lipid panel actually reveals - and what it doesn't. A plain-language guide to the numbers that matter for your heart.
Read articleApoB vs LDL: which matters more?
Two people can have similar LDL but different numbers of particles. Here's why that distinction can change your prevention plan.
Read articleLp(a): the inherited risk worth knowing
Lipoprotein(a) is largely inherited and not part of a routine panel. Current U.S. guidance recommends measuring it at least once in adulthood.
Read articleInsulin resistance and your cholesterol
Insulin resistance can alter how your body handles fats - often contributing to elevated triglycerides and lower HDL.
Read articleIs high cholesterol dangerous for me specifically?
The same cholesterol result can lead to different recommendations for different people. Risk depends on your broader profile and exposure over time.
Read articleMenopause and your heart risk
The menopause transition can bring changes in cholesterol, body composition, and vascular health. Midlife is an important time to reassess prevention.
Read articleShould I be on a statin?
A statin may be appropriate when its expected benefit outweighs its risks for you. That decision depends on your history, results, and overall risk.
Read articleInflammation and your heart risk
Chronic inflammation can contribute to cardiovascular risk. Hs-CRP can help identify an inflammatory signal - but it must be interpreted alongside your full history.
Read articleBlood sugar, metabolism, and your arteries
Persistently elevated blood sugar and chronic inflammation can contribute to vascular injury. Their effects interact with cholesterol, blood pressure, and other risks.
Read articleWhy women's heart risk is often missed
Women's risk can be overlooked when assessment focuses narrowly on age or standard cholesterol. Pregnancy history, early menopause, and inflammation add important information.
Read articleCan you lower cholesterol without medication?
Some people achieve meaningful improvement through dietary and lifestyle changes. Others need medication too - particularly when inherited or established risk is substantial.
Read articleWhat to ask your doctor about your results
Ask what the results mean together, which findings change your risk, and what action follows. A useful discussion explains both the result and the decision.
Read articleGo beyond the monthly insight
Monthly insights are educational. For an individualized assessment of your cholesterol and metabolic risk, enroll in a six-month program with Dr. Hannoush - starting with your kickoff and assessment visit.