How to read your lipid profile

A standard lipid profile reports total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Many labs also report non-HDL cholesterol, which is simply total cholesterol minus HDL.

LDL is the number most guidance centres on. Non-HDL captures cholesterol carried in every particle that can enter artery walls, so the Lipid Association of India treats it as a co-primary target alongside LDL, with stricter goals for Indians than many Western guidelines.

Indian guidance also accepts a non-fasting sample for most people, which makes repeat testing easier. Your targets depend on your overall risk, so the same number can mean different things for two people. Read it with your doctor, and watch how it moves after any change you make.