Cholesterol Risk Calculator
Understanding your cholesterol levels is a crucial step in assessing your risk for heart disease and stroke. This simplified Cholesterol Risk Calculator helps you get a general idea of your potential risk based on several key factors. High cholesterol, particularly high LDL ("bad") cholesterol and low HDL ("good") cholesterol, can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which significantly increases cardiovascular risk.
This calculator considers factors such as age, gender, cholesterol levels, blood pressure, and lifestyle choices like smoking and diabetes status. While this tool provides a preliminary estimate, it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare provider for a comprehensive risk assessment and personalized recommendations.
How Cholesterol Affects Your Health
Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all cells of your body. Your body needs some cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. However, too much cholesterol can be problematic. There are two main types:
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol: Often called "bad" cholesterol, high levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, narrowing them and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) Cholesterol: Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL helps remove excess cholesterol from your arteries and transport it back to the liver for removal from the body, thus protecting against heart disease.
Other factors like high blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and age further compound the risk associated with unhealthy cholesterol levels.
Calculate Your Estimated Cholesterol Risk
Disclaimer: This calculator provides a simplified, estimated cholesterol risk score for informational purposes only. It is not a diagnostic tool and should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Consult with a qualified healthcare provider for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
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