Lab test, explained · Reviewed by the Medical Records Vault clinical team · Last reviewed June 2026
What is LDL cholesterol? Explained
LDL cholesterol is often called the 'bad' cholesterol because higher levels are associated with a build-up in the arteries over time. It is reported on a lipid profile. What counts as a healthy LDL depends on your overall heart-disease risk, so targets are individual.
- Measures
- 'Bad' cholesterol carried in LDL particles
- Higher is associated with
- Artery build-up over time
- Target
- Depends on your overall heart-disease risk
Why LDL is called "bad" cholesterol
Cholesterol travels through the blood in particles. LDL particles can deposit cholesterol in the walls of arteries, and over years that build-up is associated with a higher risk of heart disease and stroke. That is why a higher LDL is generally something to bring down, while HDL ("good" cholesterol) is protective.
There is no single target for everyone
A healthy LDL depends on your overall cardiovascular risk. Someone with diabetes or existing heart disease is usually given a lower target than someone at low risk. Your LDL is read with the rest of your lipid profile and your risk factors, so your doctor sets the right target for you.
Questions to ask your doctor
Bring these to your next visit. They are written to help you understand what was already decided — not to second-guess your doctor.
- 1.What LDL target is right for my level of heart-disease risk?
- 2.Do my other lipid values change the picture?
- 3.What can I do about this through diet, activity, or treatment?
Common questions
- What is a good LDL cholesterol level?
- There is no single number for everyone — a healthy LDL depends on your overall cardiovascular risk, so someone with diabetes or heart disease is usually given a lower target. Your doctor sets the right target for you.
This is an educational explanation, not a diagnosis or medical advice. Medical Records Vault explains what documents say and what is commonly done; it never tells you what you have or what to change. Always consult your doctor for any medical decision.
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