© 2012 Chevron

Healthy Heart Program Cholesterol

Presenter’s Name and TitleLocation and Date

© 2012 Chevron 2

Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a soft, white, fat-like substance made in the liver and found in the body’s cells.

Three numbers you should know:

– Total cholesterol

– High Density Lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol

– Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol

© 2012 Chevron 3

Know Your Numbers

Total Cholesterol

– Level under 200 mg/dl (5.2mmol/L) is recommended.

HDL Cholesterol - also known as “good” cholesterol.

– High HDL reduces risk for heart disease.

– Male - Level of 40 mg/dl (1 mmol/L) or higher is recommended.

– Female - Level of 50 mg/dl (1.3 mmol/L) or higher is recommended.

LDL Cholesterol - also known as the “bad” cholesterol.

– Carries cholesterol to the coronary arteries and causes plaque to build up.

– Optimal value is below 100 mg/dl (2.6 mmol/L).

– If you have heart disease or diabetes, LDL should be less than 70 mg/dl (2.6mmol/dl).

© 2012 Chevron 4

High Cholesterol

High blood cholesterol is one of the five major modifiable risk factors for coronary heart disease. It also increases the risk for stroke.

Major Risk Factors:

– Genetics.

– Amount of dietary cholesterol you eat.

– Amount of “unhealthy” fat (saturated and trans fat) you eat.

– Certain diseases such as thyroid problems, liver disease, diabetes and kidney disease.

– Some medications, such as diuretics, beta-blockers and steroids.

© 2012 Chevron 5

Reduce Your Risk

What’s the First Step?

– Get screened and know your numbers.

Ways to Reduce Your Risk Factors:

– Quit smoking.

– Exercise at least 20-30 minutes, 3-4 days per week.

– Limit alcohol intake.

– Eat less cholesterol, saturated fats and trans fats.

– Lose weight if you are overweight.

– Use medication as directed by your primary care physician.

© 2012 Chevron 6

Get Started. Learn More.

Internet: hr2.chevron.com/heart

Email: heart@chevron.com

Phone: 1-888-321-1544 (925-842-8346 if outside U.S.)