HDL percentage blood test in Chiswick

What the test measures

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is often called good cholesterol because HDL particles carry cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver for removal. Total cholesterol includes HDL along with LDL and other forms that can build up in artery walls.

This test reports total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and HDL as a percentage of the total. A higher HDL percentage generally means a larger share of your cholesterol is in the protective form. It is a simple, focused check, and it sits alongside, rather than replacing, a full cholesterol profile with LDL and triglycerides when assessing heart risk.

Your price includes the sample taken at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review of your result and a GP feedback report on request.

Who it is for

• You want a quick check of your protective cholesterol.
• You have made changes to diet or exercise and want to see their effect on HDL.
• You have had a low HDL result before and want to track it.
• You have a family history of heart disease and want a simple starting point.

Understanding your result

Your report shows each value against the laboratory reference range. A low HDL, or a low HDL percentage, is linked with a higher risk of heart and circulation problems, and can go with smoking, inactivity, excess weight, type 2 diabetes and high triglycerides. Regular activity, stopping smoking and a balanced diet can help raise HDL over time.

Very high HDL is not always protective and is occasionally linked with genetic or other factors. Your practitioner will read the result with your blood pressure, lifestyle and family history. An unusual figure is a starting point for a conversation, not a diagnosis.

Preparing for your test

Fasting is not needed for total and HDL cholesterol, so you can eat normally. Avoid an unusually heavy meal and alcohol the evening before, and do not do strenuous exercise just before your appointment. Keep taking any cholesterol medicine as prescribed.

For LDL, triglycerides and ratios, see our cholesterol tests. You may also like to view every blood test and price in Chiswick.

Questions

How much is an HDL percentage test in Chiswick?

The HDL Percentage test costs £59. It includes your blood sample at our Chiswick clinic, analysis at the Randox accredited laboratory, a practitioner review and a GP feedback report on request.

What is a good HDL percentage?

In general, a higher share of HDL is better. Your report shows the laboratory reference range, and your practitioner will explain what your own figure means.

How can I raise my HDL?

Regular physical activity, stopping smoking, losing excess weight and limiting refined carbohydrates can all help. Changes usually take a few months to show.

Is this the same as a cholesterol ratio?

It is related. The cholesterol ratio divides total cholesterol by HDL, while HDL percentage shows HDL as a share of the total. Both describe the same balance in different ways.