08/10/2026
Cholesterol travels through your blood, and when levels increase, your risk of heart disease and stroke can go up. Many people don’t have symptoms, so knowing your numbers is key.
A standard cholesterol screening is recommended for children ages 9-11, and adults should be screened again at age 19 and every 5 years after. The blood test, also called a lipid panel, measures total cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol and triglycerides.
Based on your health and risk factors, your healthcare team might recommend more advanced cholesterol screening. New guidance recommends every adult get tested for lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), at least once in their lifetime. Testing for Apolipoprotein B or ApoB gives a clearer picture of heart disease risk for people with other health conditions. Men 40 and older and women 45 and older can be considered for a coronary artery scan to check the artery walls for early plaque buildup.
Ask about your cholesterol at your next appointment. Your doctor can help you understand whether advanced cholesterol screening is right for you.
