What are the correct levels of cholesterol?
Cholesterol is measured by having a simple finger pricking test which can be provided as a service in pharmacy without an appointment. It is painless, quick and results will be available after the test has been completed.
Blood cholesterol is measured in millimoles (or mmol/L ) per litre of blood. After completing the test, you can use the guide found in the staff handbook of our Cholesterol screening service toolkit available by clicking here.
Here is a summary of what the readings should look like:
| Type | What does this mean? | Ideal Reading |
| Total cholesterol* | Total amount of cholesterol in your blood | Below 5mmol/L or less |
| LDL* | Bad cholesterol | Below 3mmol/L |
| HDL | Good cholesterol | Ideally above 1mmol/L |