Cholesterol is a waxy substance akin to fat, produced by the body and also sourced from food. It plays a crucial role in the normal functioning of the body, including the construction of cell membranes. However, the body requires only a minimal amount of cholesterol in the bloodstream to fulfil these needs.

Cholesterol travels through the bloodstream bound to proteins called lipoproteins, which are categorised into two types:

• Low-density lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as ‘bad’ cholesterol, LDL contributes to the accumulation of fats in the arteries, potentially leading to clogged arteries.
• High-density lipoprotein (HDL): Known as ‘good’ cholesterol, HDL assists in removing cholesterol from cells before it can form plaque in the arteries, thus preventing fat buildup.

Effective cholesterol management aims to minimise total cholesterol levels in the blood, as excess cholesterol may deposit in the arteries, including those supplying the heart. These deposits can cause arteries to harden and narrow (a condition known as atherosclerosis), diminishing blood flow to the heart. Reduced blood and oxygen supply can lead to chest pain, while a complete blockage may result in a heart attack.

High cholesterol levels can result from a variety of common causes and risk factors, which can be divided into modifiable and non-modifiable categories.

Modifiable risk factors include:

• Physical Inactivity: Not exercising can lower HDL (‘good’) cholesterol and result in weight gain, both of which contribute to high cholesterol.
• Obesity: Being overweight is linked to lower HDL levels, higher LDL levels, and increased triglycerides, leading to more plaque buildup in the arteries.
• Diet: Consuming foods rich in saturated or trans fats can negatively impact cholesterol levels.
• Alcohol: Excessive alcohol intake can elevate total cholesterol levels.
• Smoking: Smoking can lead to coronary atherosclerosis and lower HDL levels.
• Diabetes: Diabetes can reduce HDL levels and increase LDL levels. Maintaining a healthy weight, balanced diet, and regular exercise can help control blood glucose levels and prevent diabetes progression.

Non-modifiable risk factors include:

• Other Medical Conditions: Certain conditions may elevate cholesterol levels. Discuss with your doctor about managing high cholesterol risks.
• Family History: A family history of high cholesterol increases the likelihood of similar issues. Regular cholesterol checks are advisable.
• Age: Cholesterol levels tend to rise with age due to decreased efficiency in removing LDL cholesterol.

Since high cholesterol typically shows no symptoms, individuals over 40 or those with a higher risk should regularly monitor their cholesterol levels to lessen the risk of coronary artery disease.

Depending on the laboratory you used for your cholesterol blood tests, the results may be in either mmol/L or mg/dL.

Cholesterol Levels in mmol/L

Total Blood Cholesterol (mmol/L)
< 5.2	Desirable
5.2 – 6.1	Borderline High
≥ 6.2	High
LDL Cholesterol (mmol/L)
< 2.6	Optimal
2.6 – 3.3	Desirable
3.4 – 4.0	Borderline High
4.1 – 4.8	High
≥ 4.9	Very High
HDL Cholesterol (mmol/L)
< 1.0	Low
1.0 – 1.5	Desirable
≥ 1.6	High
Triglyceride (mmol/L)
< 1.7	Optimal
1.7 – 2.2	Desirable
2.3 – 4.4	High
≥ 4.5	Very High

Cholesterol Levels in mg/dL

Total Blood Cholesterol (mg/dL)
< 200	Desirable
200 – 239	Borderline High
≥ 240	High
LDL Cholesterol (mg/dL)
< 100	Optimal
100 – 129	Desirable
130 – 159	Borderline High
160 – 189	High
≥ 190	Very High
HDL Cholesterol (mg/dL)
< 40	Low
40 – 59	Desirable
≥ 60	High
Triglyceride (mmol/L)
< 150	Optimal
150 – 199	Desirable
200 – 399	High
≥ 400	Very High

Test	Price*
[Subsidised] Screen for Life (Eligible Singaporeans / CHAS Green)	From $5.00
[Subsidised] Screen for Life (Eligible CHAS Blue / Orange cardholders)	$2.00
[Subsidised] Screen for Life (Merdeka Generation)	$2.00
[Subsidised] Screen for Life (Pioneer Generation)	$0
Essential Lipid Profile: Full Cholesterol Test (Total, LDL, HDL, Triglycerides, HDL Ratio)	$20.00
Cardiac Screening 3: Essential Lipid Profile + Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) + HsCRP	$58.00
Cardiac Screening 4: Cardiac Screening 3 + Homocysteine + Fasting Insulin + Glucose Note: Fasting is required for accurate results of Fasting Insulin and Glucose.	$158.00
[Optional] Lipoprotein (a)	$51.00
[Optional] CT Calcium Score	$350.00
[Optional] Coronary Angiogram (CTCA)	$2110.00

*Prices are subject to GST.
For walk in tests, there is a consultation rate of $35. For Screen For Life or Healthier SG patients, consultation is fully subsidised.

Lifestyle Changes

1. Eat Healthily

Opt for foods high in omega-3 fatty acids and fibre, like salmon and oatmeal, and limit intake of saturated and trans fats found in red meats, margarine, and desserts.

2. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity can increase LDL cholesterol and hinder the body's ability to remove it, raising cholesterol to unhealthy levels and elevating the risk of heart disease and stroke. Aim for a healthy BMI, ideally between 18.5 and 22.9 kg/m2 for Asians.

3. Exercise Regularly

Engaging in moderate-intensity exercises boosts HDL cholesterol and aids in weight management. Simple activities, such as using stairs, can be incorporated into daily routines. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, but please consult your doctor to understand suitable exercises for you.

4. Quit Smoking

Engaging in moderate-intensity exercises boosts HDL cholesterol and aids in weight management. Simple activities, such as using stairs, can be incorporated into daily routines. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise weekly, but please consult your doctor to understand suitable exercises for you.

5. Moderate Alcohol Intake

Limiting alcohol consumption can prevent increases in triglyceride and total cholesterol levels.

If lifestyle changes are insufficient to lower cholesterol, medication may be prescribed based on individual risk factors, aiming to:

• Reduce triglyceride levels
• Decrease LDL cholesterol levels
• Boost HDL cholesterol levels

Medications should only be taken under a doctor's supervision. You should not stop your medication without first consulting your doctor.

A blood test at our clinic usually lasts between 30-60 minutes during off-peak periods. Your results will be ready in 3-5 days and sent to you via email.

ATA Medical is conveniently located at two different locations:

• Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
• Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)

We can also provide home health screening or blood tests at your location at your convenience. Alternatively, you can consider going for our routine and comprehensive health screening packages. Our Royal ($612) and Jewel ($1299), and Marvel ($2100) package have various blood and ultrasound tests bundled with them.