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In medical terms, high amounts of cholesterol in the blood are called "hypercholesterolaemia". Cholesterol is a fatty molecule that the body needs to generate hormones and build cells. It is characterised by total cholesterol levels of > 200 mg/dL. This condition affects about 40% of the U.S. population. This illness is a kind of hyperlipidaemia, which means there is too much lipid (fat) in the blood, which includes cholesterol and triglycerides.

LDL cholesterol is the worst kind of “bad” cholesterol because it carries cholesterol across the body. High LDL leads to the accumulation of cholesterol in the walls of arteries, forming plaques that narrow the arteries and increase the risk of blockages. Cholesterol doesn’t cause symptoms and is usually detected on a blood test alone.

Major contributors are poor diet (saturated and trans fats), obesity (BMI ?30), lack of exercise, smoking, excess alcohol, stress, and genetics (particularly familial hypercholesterolaemia). Two in five Americans have abnormal cholesterol levels, a key risk factor for heart disease and stroke, the two leading causes of death.

Treatment: modification of lifestyle and diet. Exercise regularly (20 minutes, 3 times a week). Smoking cessation, weight loss, saturated/trans fat reduction, eating healthy fats (such as lean meats, nuts, and olive oil) Intake of soluble fibre, salt restriction. Medications may include the following: Statins, cholesterol absorption inhibitors (ezetimibe), PCSK9 inhibitors, Fibrates, or niacin. Hypercholesterolaemia is generally accepted as the most significant modifiable risk factor for cardiovascular disease after smoking.