What it measures
HDL cholesterol is the cholesterol carried by high-density lipoprotein, which takes cholesterol from the body's tissues back to the liver. It is part of a standard cholesterol test.
Why people test it
- Part of a cholesterol test, used with total cholesterol to estimate heart and stroke risk.
- Used to work out non-HDL cholesterol and the total cholesterol to HDL ratio.
- Monitored on statins and other cholesterol-lowering prescriptions.
- Anabolic steroids are known to lower HDL, so it is often checked during or after a cycle.
- Often part of routine bloods on TRT, with the rest of the cholesterol test.
Typical range
Ranges vary between labs, with the method used, age and sex, and your report shows the lab's own range. The NHS gives a guide for healthy adults of above 1.0 mmol/L for men and above 1.2 mmol/L for women. Source: NHS: high cholesterol, cholesterol levels.
Finger-prick or vein?
A finger-prick sample is usually fine for cholesterol tests. A vein draw works too and is used when it is part of a larger panel.
Eating before the test makes little difference to this result, so fasting is not usually needed.