National Cholesterol Education Month

September is National Cholesterol Education Month and we can’t think of a better time for you to get your numbers checked. The same way high blood pressure can be dangerous, so can high cholesterol and what it means for your heart health.

More than 102 million American Adults (20 years or older) have total cholesterol levels at or above 200 mg/dL, which is above healthy levels. More than 35 million of these people have levels of 240 mg/dL or higher, which puts them at high risk for heart disease. (Source: CDC)

High cholesterol doesn’t have any symptoms, so many do not realize when their numbers are on the rise. Checking your numbers is as simple as a blood test at the doctor’s office. High blood cholesterol is a risk factor for coronary heart disease.

The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP)External recommends that adults aged 20 years or older have their cholesterol checked every 5 years. Age isn’t necessarily a factor in high cholesterol – even some young children can be diagnosed with high cholesterol.

What can you do to help lower your cholesterol? Many of the same things you should practice for a heart healthy life. A diet rich in fiber and low in fat, maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and quitting smoking.

For more resources and education about high cholesterol, visit these trusted sites:
CDC – September is National Cholesterol Education Month
Federal Occupational Health – September is Cholesterol Awareness Month