Cholesterol – a term that almost everyone has heard before, often in connection with health, nutrition or heart problems.

What is cholesterol?

Cholesterol is a fat-like substance that our body needs in order to function. It is found in every cell and helps, for example, to build cell walls, produce hormones such as oestrogen or testosterone and manufacture vitamin D. Our body makes a large proportion of cholesterol itself, especially in the liver. We absorb the rest through our diet – especially through foods such as eggs, meat, butter or cheese.

However, there are two important types of cholesterol that you should be aware of: the “good” HDL cholesterol and the “bad” LDL cholesterol. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) collects excess cholesterol from the blood and takes it back to the liver where it is broken down. LDL (low-density lipoprotein), on the other hand, transports cholesterol into the blood vessels. If there is too much LDL in the blood, it can build up on the blood vessel walls and clog them up over time – increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke. This is why doctors often refer to “high cholesterol” when LDL levels get out of hand.

Why is measurement important?

Not everyone notices when their cholesterol is too high – there are no clear symptoms such as pain or tiredness. The problem often only becomes apparent when it is too late, for example through cardiovascular disease. In Germany, many people die of such diseases every year, and high cholesterol levels are a major risk factor. It therefore makes sense to check your levels regularly, especially from the age of 35 or if you have a family history of heart problems.

How is cholesterol measured?

In Germany, laboratory medicine takes over the exact determination of cholesterol levels – i.e. special laboratories that work with modern equipment. The process usually begins with the family doctor. They often send patients for a blood test, either directly at the practice or to a laboratory. A small amount of blood is taken from the vein, usually from the arm. Important: You should not eat anything for about 8 to 12 hours before the measurement so that the result is not falsified by a meal – drinking water is permitted, however.

The blood is then analyzed in the laboratory. The experts look at three values: total cholesterol, HDL and LDL. Total cholesterol is the sum of everything floating around in the blood. HDL and LDL are measured separately because they play such different roles. Often a value called triglycerides is also checked – these are other blood lipids that also have an influence on health.

The measurement itself is fully automated using high-precision equipment. Chemical reactions in the laboratory indicate how much cholesterol is in the blood and the results are given in millimoles per liter (mmol/l). In Germany, the following guideline values apply: total cholesterol should be below 5.0 mmol/l, LDL below 3.0 mmol/l and HDL above 1.0 mmol/l (for men) or 1.2 mmol/l (for women). But: What is “normal” also depends on the personal risk – those who already have heart problems need stricter limits.

What happens to the results?

The lab results are sent back to the doctor, who discusses them with the patient. If the values are OK, everything is fine. But if, for example, the LDL is too high, the doctor can give tips: more exercise, less fatty food or sometimes even medication such as statins to lower the cholesterol level. In Germany, the system is structured in such a way that health insurance companies often cover such examinations – for example as part of health check-ups from the age of 35, which are possible every three years.

Why is laboratory medicine so important?

Without laboratory medicine, it would be difficult to measure cholesterol so accurately. In the past, only rough estimates were made, but today laboratories provide reliable data that helps doctors to identify and treat problems at an early stage. In Germany, laboratories work according to strict quality standards so that the results are equally reliable everywhere – whether in Berlin or Bavaria.

Conclusion: It’s worth taking a look at the blood

Cholesterol is not an enemy, but a vital substance – but in excess it can be dangerous. Thanks to laboratory medicine in Germany, it is easy to keep an eye on your values. A small prick in the blood can show whether everything is in the green zone or whether you need to take action – a small effort with a big effect for your own health. If you are unsure, you should talk to your doctor – because prevention is better than cure.

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Gender note. The personal designations used in this text always refer equally to female, male and diverse persons. Double/triple references and gendered designations are avoided for the sake of better readability ected.