When you think of serious health threats, you probably imagine something you can feel, like acute pain, difficulty breathing or dizziness. But high LDL cholesterol, often called “bad cholesterol”, has no symptoms. You will not feel it, but it could be increasing your risk of heart attack or an attack or stroke.
According to the American Heart Association or the American Heart Association, approximately every 40 seconds someone in the United States suffers a heart attack, and stroke attacks and spills occur with the same frequency. One of the main factors that contribute to these events is high LDL cholesterol or “bad cholesterol.”
Why is LDL so dangerous?
LDL, for its acronym in English, means low density lipoprotein and, when your level is too high, it can cause the plate to accumulate in your arteries, narrowing them and hindering blood flow. This silent accumulation can increase your risk of heart attack or an attack or stroke, without showing warning signs.
Many people think that cholesterol problems only appear in adulthood or unhealthy habits, but high LDL can affect anyone. Genetics, family history, food, physical activity and other risk factors also influence. For Hispanic and Latin communities, where high cholesterol rates and related conditions are usually little diagnosed, this message is especially important. You can’t know if your LDL is high just by how you feel. You must take the test.
The good news is that you can do something about it
Here is the encouraging part: LDL (bad) cholesterol can be controlled. A simple blood test can indicate your LDL level and, from there, your doctor can help you create a plan that works for you. That could imply changes in your diet, in your level of physical activity or the use of medicines if necessary.
It’s not about perfection, it’s about prevention. Taking action today and knowing your LDL level can help you protect the health of your heart in the future.
Why awareness is key
A survey conducted in 2023 by the American Heart Association, together with The Harris Poll found that almost half of the survivors of a heart attack did not know their LDL number (47 %) and that 75 % reported having high cholesterol. These figures remind us that awareness is fundamental and that the action begins with knowledge.
Knowing your LDL cholesterol number, not just protect yourself, you also protect your loved ones and give an example for the next generation. And although changes in lifestyle can help, family history, genetics and access to medical care also influence, which makes regular tests and conversations with your doctor even more important.
Who should be tested?
The American Heart Association recommends that adults of 20 years or more are done a cholesterol test every four to six years. For those who have additional risk factors, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, who smoke or have a family history of heart disease or attack or stroke, it may be necessary to perform tests more frequently according to personal risk.
The cholesterol test is fast, simple and can be part of your regular medical check -up. If time has passed since the last time you got the test, this is the time to take that step.
Protect what matters most
There is no disadvantage in knowing your cholesterol numbers, but the cost of ignoring them can be high. Even without symptoms, high LDL cholesterol, or “bad cholesterol,” can be dangerous. Early detection and a clear management plan with your doctor can help you reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke or cerebral spill.
Whether you are taking care of your health, protecting your family or simply planning for the future, prioritizing your health of the heart is an important step forward.
Don’t wait any longer. Talk to your doctor and visit Heart.org/ldl for more information.
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