A cholesterol test measures the levels of different types of fats in your blood: LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides. These measurements help your doctor assess your risk of heart disease and stroke. High levels of certain cholesterol types can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries.
When is it needed?
Assessing heart disease riskMonitoring cholesterol levelsFamily history of heart diseaseChest painStroke risk assessmentRoutine health check
How to prepare
You will need to fast for 9-12 hours before this test. You can usually drink water during this time, but check with your doctor.
More about this test
A cholesterol test measures the levels of different types of fats in your blood: LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides. These measurements help your doctor assess your risk of heart disease and stroke. High levels of certain cholesterol types can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries.
Medically reviewed by: Locatemycentre editorial team. Informational only; not medical advice. Always consult a licensed physician for diagnosis or treatment.
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A cholesterol test measures the levels of different types of fats in your blood: LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides. These measurements help your doctor assess your risk of heart disease and stroke. High levels of certain cholesterol types can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries.
Do I need to fast before a Cholesterol Test?
You will need to fast for 9-12 hours before this test. You can usually drink water during this time, but check with your doctor.
How much does a Cholesterol Test cost in India?
Prices for Cholesterol Test vary widely by city, lab, and accreditation. As a rule of thumb, NABL-accredited labs in metros are more expensive than standalone neighbourhood labs. Use Locatemycentre to compare verified centres near you.
Can I get a Cholesterol Test with home sample collection?
Yes. Almost every NABL-accredited diagnostic centre in metros like Bangalore, Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Hyderabad offers home sample collection for Cholesterol Test. Book the night before, especially for any fasting tests, and confirm the visit fee (typically ₹100-₹250).
How long do Cholesterol Test results take?
Most routine Cholesterol Test reports are ready within 6-24 hours of sample collection. Specialised assays and tests sent to a parent lab may take 2-7 days. Confirm the exact turnaround with the centre before booking - it matters if you have a follow-up consult scheduled.
How will I receive the report?
Reports are emailed as a PDF and are usually downloadable from the centre's patient portal using your registration ID. Hard-copy collection at the counter is usually free; courier delivery is optional. Save the digital copy - your physician will want to see it alongside any prior reports.
Do I need a doctor's prescription for a Cholesterol Test?
For most routine versions of Cholesterol Test you can walk in without a prescription. Some advanced or restricted tests require a referral by law, and a physician's involvement is always recommended so the result is interpreted against your symptoms and history.
When should I repeat a Cholesterol Test?
Repeat timing depends on the clinical reason for the test. For monitoring a known condition, your physician will set the interval (often every 3-6 months). For a screening test that came back normal, repeat as part of your annual health check unless your doctor advises otherwise.