Your cholesterol number

What should my cholesterol number be?

If you have had a cardiovascular event, such as a stroke or a heart attack, leading UK heart doctors from the Joint British Societies (JBS 2) and NICE recommend:

• TOTAL CHOLESTEROL: below 4.0 mmol/L or
• ‘BAD’ LDL CHOLESTEROL: below 2.0 mmol/L

How can you find out what your cholesterol number is?

There are many different measures that are used when testing cholesterol. Usually you will be measured for 'good' and 'bad' cholesterol and triglycerides, as well as total cholesterol.

Your doctor will be able to help you find out your cholesterol number by performing a simple blood test. You do not normally need to fast (not eat) before a test, but your doctor will be able to advise you on this.

Both high blood pressure and diabetes, two of the main causes of CKD, can lead to cardiovascular disease, such as a stroke or heart attack. Therefore, if you have been diagnosed with CKD, it is particularly important to get your cholesterol tested.

I have had my cholesterol level tested before - should I have another test?

Cholesterol levels can change over time. You should usually have your cholesterol level checked every 12 to 15 months, or more frequently if your doctor or nurse advise this, or if your medicine has changed.