Cholesterol screening requires a small blood sample from the finger to measure:
- Total cholesterol;
- High-density lipoproteins (HDL);
- Low-density lipoproteins (LDL);
- Triglycerides; and
- Blood glucose.
These factors help determine your risk for heart attack or stroke.
An 8- to 12-hour fast is recommended prior to the screening, which lasts approximately 30 minutes. Results are available by phone within two hours and are sent to your doctor if requested.
The screenings are free at Benefit Health locations across the metro area.