LDL Cholestrol Direct Test

LDL is an abbreviation for low-density lipoprotein. Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol is one of four different types. Lipoproteins are globe-shaped molecules containing lipids bound to unique proteins, apoproteins. Each constituent has a particular function of its own. The four classical types of lipoproteins found in blood are:

Each of them can be measured using a lipid panel. Still, a chol LDL direct test can only estimate the values of LDL cholesterol. LDL cholesterol is also termed "bad cholesterol" due to its highest cholesterol content. On the contrary, HDL cholesterol is termed as "good cholesterol" due to its cholesterol scavenging properties. Two primary reasons to term LDL as bad for health are:

• LDL concentration in blood is directly linked with the risk of a heart attack.
• LDL cholesterol increases the risk of coronary heart disease, peripheral heart disease and cardiovascular diseases.

A chol LDL direct test aims to detect the LDLc levels and use them in health screening, monitoring and diagnosis. Screening with the help of a chol LDL direct test will allow the physicians to correlate the symptoms and prevent the condition, if any, from worsening. Earlier in the diagnosis, better are the chances of getting cured. Your doctor can also prescribe a chol LDL direct test at periodic intervals to assess the risk of cardiovascular disorders over time.

Recently, India has shown a rise in total cholesterol levels. It acts as a significant risk factor for heart diseases. The prevalence of high LDL levels and low HDL levels is resulting in premature heart diseases. The optimal LDL for a person to live a healthy life is 100 mg/dL or less. However, immunity deficient people, people with chronic diseases, diabetes or stroke should aim for an LDL less than 30 mg/dL.

Here are some lifestyle habits to maintain to control the rise in blood cholesterol:

• Reduce the intake of fatty foods.
• Reduce salt intake to less than 5 grams per day.
• Avoid smoking and alcohol.
• Exercise regularly, i.e. move your body for at least 30 minutes in a go.
• Treat your underlying conditions, like obesity and diabetes mellitus.
• Increase the consumption of fruits and vegetables.
• Keep track of your blood pressure.

With all being said, The chol LDL direct test is used to diagnose coronary heart disease, risk of heart attack, peripheral heart diseases and stroke.

Coronary artery disease, Heart attack, Stroke, Peripheral heart disease

The chol LDL direct test evaluates bad cholesterol levels in our blood. The LDLc concentration of more than 130 mg/dL increases our risk of heart disorders. It is analysed based on a blood sample collected by the healthcare professional.

The chol LDL direct test assists assess the following:

• Coronary artery disease
• Heart attack
• Peripheral heart disease
• Stroke
• Chronic kidney diseases

Your doctor will prescribe a chol LDL direct test if you are prone to certain risk factors, like:

Modifiable risk factors mean that you can control and modify them to change to a healthier lifestyle. On the other hand, non-modifiable risk factors cannot be controlled.

Doctors will prescribe a chol LDL direct test if they suspect a history of high LDL levels or concerning signs and symptoms. It is not a part of a routine cholesterol test. If your previous triglyceride test results were high, doctors would prescribe a chol LDL direct test.

Consult your healthcare professional or the physician about the upcoming steps regarding follow-ups for treatments or therapies.

Before the Test

• You need to fast for 8 to 12 hours before a chol LDL direct test for accurate test reports.
• You must not smoke or drink alcohol before the test.
• Avoid strenuous exercise.
• Closely follow your doctor's instructions regarding medications or herbal supplements to avoid.

During the Test

A nurse or sample collector will use your arm's vein to collect the blood sample. Preferably, wear a short sleeve for convenience during sample collection.

After the Test

When done hygienically and according to protocol, the chol LDL direct test procedure poses no serious threats to an individual. There might be slight soreness due to needle insertion and lightheadedness.

A chol LDL direct test includes one parameter, i.e. measuring low-density lipoprotein cholesterol or harmful cholesterol levels. It is a blood test based on the sample collected after an overnight or 8-12 hours fasting period. Chol LDL direct test reports vary with age and sex and lifestyle modifications.

Other related tests to further evaluate the cholesterol levels of the body are:

• Standard lipid panel test
• Total cholesterol test
• Non-HDL cholesterol test

Although, desirable levels of LDL, according to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, is less than 100 mg/dL to prevent heart attacks.

The normal values and reference ranges of the test may vary from lab to lab. Please refer to the ranges mentioned in the report and consult a doctor to understand the interpretation of lab reports.

The chol LDL direct test results can help yield information about abnormal levels of LDL in adults and children.

The reports of chol LDL direct test will commonly reflect the LDL levels in milligram per deciliter of blood. A higher than desirable level, i.e. more than 100 mg/dL, will make you susceptible to a risk of heart diseases. Although, accurate interpretation is depicted as follows: