Cholesterol Education Month: Protect Your Health, Know Your Numbers

September: Cholesterol Education Month

Risk of high cholesterol increases with age but can affect anyone. It is often referred to as a “silent” condition because it typically has no symptoms. The only reliable way to detect it is through screening and testing.

Maintaining cholesterol matters for the following reasons and more.

  • Keeping cholesterol in a healthy range is key to heart health and overall well-being.
  • Military families face unique stressors and routines that can impact health habits.
  • Managing cholesterol helps support readiness, resilience, and quality of life.

What You Need to Know About Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a waxy substance in your blood. Your body needs some cholesterol to build cell membranes, produce hormones (like estrogen and testosterone), make vitamin D, and digest fatty foods, but too much can build up in your arteries and cause heart damage.

Here are things to keep in mind:

Good vs. Bad Cholesterol:

  • Total cholesterol: Ideally under 200 mg/dL and optimal is 150mg/dL.
  • High-density lipoprotein: "Good" cholesterol helps remove bad cholesterol, 40 mg/dL for men and 50 mg/dL in women.
  • Low-density lipoprotein: "Bad" cholesterol can build up and block arteries, under 100 mg/dL.

Risk Factors:

  • Family history of high cholesterol.
  • Poor diet high in saturated fat/trans-fat and lack of physical activity.
  • Smoking, stress, obesity, and excessive alcohol use.
  • Untreated high cholesterol can lead to:
    • Heart disease or stroke.
    • Plaque buildup in arteries (atherosclerosis).
    • Reduced or blocked blood flow, increasing the risk of:
      • Heart attacks
      • Strokes
      • Peripheral artery disease

How Often Should You Get Checked?

  • Adults: Age 20 or older every four to six years.
  • Children with a family history of high cholesterol may need earlier screening.
  • Those at risk: More frequently and/or advised by your provider.

How to Manage Cholesterol

Good news! There are many ways to manage cholesterol and take control. Listed below are a few things you can do.

  • Choose heart-healthy foods (less saturated fat and more fiber).
  • Stay active with regular exercise and maintain a healthy weight.
  • Quit tobacco and limit alcohol.
  • Take medications as prescribed, if needed.
  • Screening and testing.

Available Resources for Military Families

Your health matters! Resources are available to help keep you on track. Check them out!

Talk with your health care provider today about checking your cholesterol. Small steps now can prevent big health problems later.

Last Updated 8/29/2025