What is LDL cholesterol?

LDL cholesterol is the cholesterol carried on low-density lipoprotein particles. It is the most commonly used lipid marker for cardiovascular risk.

ApoB is a protein on every atherogenic lipoprotein particle. An ApoB measurement counts particle number, which many lipidologists consider a better risk marker than LDL cholesterol alone.

Lp(a) is a genetically determined lipoprotein particle. Elevated Lp(a) is an independent risk factor for atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease.

Lipids 101 · Free educational reference

Understand your cholesterol numbers without the jargon.

A plain-English tour of LDL, ApoB, Lp(a), triglycerides, and non-HDL — with the reference ranges preventive cardiologists actually use. Educational content only.

LDL Cholesterol

< 70 mg/dL in high risk

The classic marker. Reflects cholesterol mass on LDL particles. Lower is generally better across a wide range of clinical situations.

ApoB

< 80 mg/dL in high risk

Counts the number of atherogenic particles. Many lipidologists prefer ApoB when LDL and triglycerides disagree.

Lp(a)

Measure once in a lifetime

Largely genetic. High Lp(a) is an independent risk marker. Aggressive LDL/ApoB lowering is the current lever.

Triglycerides

< 150 mg/dL fasting

Reflects VLDL and remnant particles. Very high triglycerides carry pancreatitis risk in addition to cardiovascular risk.

Non-HDL Cholesterol

LDL target + 30 mg/dL

Total minus HDL. Captures all atherogenic cholesterol at once and is useful when triglycerides are elevated.

HDL Cholesterol

Context-dependent

Often called 'good' cholesterol, but very high HDL is not automatically protective. Treat as context, not a target.

Common questions

Is a lower LDL always better?

For most people at elevated cardiovascular risk, evidence supports 'lower for longer.' There is no established LDL floor that has been shown to be harmful in trials.

What if I can't tolerate a statin?

Statin intolerance is common and often manageable. Rechallenge with a different statin, a lower starting dose, or a non-daily interval is a well-described educational framework.

When should I ask about ApoB?

Any time LDL and triglycerides disagree, or when you want a particle-count view of risk. Ask your clinician whether ApoB is appropriate for your situation.

Do I need to measure Lp(a)?

A one-time measurement is reasonable for most adults. It informs long-term risk and family screening conversations.

Educational only

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