Center for Wellness and Aesthetics Institute
6/F Podium Bldg., The Medical City

For inquiries: (632) 8-988-1000 / 8-988-7000 loc. 6576
For scheduling: (632) 8-988-1000 / 8-988-7000 loc. 6386 / 6579
Fax Number: (632) 8-634-9399
Email Address: tmc_wcl@themedicalcity.com

Operating Hours:
Wellness and Aesthetics Institute (WAI - Outpatient):
Mondays to Saturdays, 7:00am to 5:00pm
Sundays and Holidays, Closed

Surgery Suite Aesthetics (WAI - SSA):
Mondays to Saturdays, 8:00am to 4:00pm
Sundays and Holidays, Closed

Wellness and Aesthetics Floor 7WA (Unit):
Mondays to Saturdays, 24 hours
Sundays and Holidays, By schedule

PATIENT SERVICES

Cholesterol Laboratory Testing in the Philippines

Why is the Cholesterol Test Important?

Cholesterol is a waxy substance that your body needs to build cells and produce hormones. However, not all cholesterol is created equal. There are two main types:

• Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL). Often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, high levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
• High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL). Known as "good" cholesterol, HDL helps remove LDL from the bloodstream.

A cholesterol test, also known as a lipid panel or lipid profile, provides a comprehensive overview of your cholesterol levels. It typically includes measurements of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Regular cholesterol blood testing is important because:

1. Risk Assessment. High cholesterol often does not present noticeable symptoms. Regular testing helps identify individuals at risk for cardiovascular diseases before serious complications arise.
2. Guiding Treatment. For those already diagnosed with high cholesterol or related conditions, testing helps monitor the effectiveness of treatment plans and lifestyle changes.
3. Preventive Healthcare. It is recommended for adults to have their cholesterol levels checked every four to six years starting at age 20. More frequent testing may be necessary for those with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease.

What Happens During a Total Cholesterol Test?

A cholesterol test is a straightforward procedure that usually involves the following steps:

1. Preparation. Depending on your doctor’s instructions, you may need to fast for 9 to 12 hours prior to doing the test for cholesterol. This means avoiding all food and drinks except water. However, some recent guidelines suggest that non-fasting tests can also provide accurate results for many adults.
2. Blood Draw. The test is typically performed in a laboratory. A healthcare professional will clean the skin on your arm with an antiseptic and insert a needle into a vein to collect blood into a vial or syringe. This process usually takes just a few minutes.
3. Post-Test Care. After the blood sample is taken, you may be asked to apply pressure to the site with a cotton ball or bandage until bleeding stops. There are usually minimal risks associated with this procedure; however, some people may experience slight bruising or soreness at the puncture site.
4. Results Interpretation. Once your blood sample has been analyzed, your doctor will review the results with you. They will explain what your cholesterol levels mean in relation to your overall health and any necessary next steps.

What Diseases Can Arise if Cholesterol Levels Are Left Unchecked?

Unchecked high cholesterol can lead to several serious health conditions:

• Atherosclerosis. This condition occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries due to high levels of LDL cholesterol. Over time, this narrows the arteries and restricts blood flow, which can lead to serious complications.
• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD). Atherosclerosis in the coronary arteries can result in CAD, where blood flow to the heart is reduced. This can cause chest pain (angina) or heart attacks.
• Stroke. If plaque breaks off and forms a clot that blocks blood flow to the brain, it can result in an ischemic stroke.
• Peripheral Artery Disease (PAD). Atherosclerosis can also affect arteries in the legs and arms, leading to reduced blood flow and increased risk of pain during physical activity or even critical limb ischemia.
• Heart Attack. A sudden blockage in one of the coronary arteries due to plaque rupture can cause a heart attack by preventing oxygen-rich blood from reaching parts of the heart muscle.

What Should You Do to Maintain a Healthy Level of Cholesterol?

Maintaining healthy cholesterol levels involves lifestyle changes and regular monitoring:

1. Healthy Diet
   • Limit Saturated Fats. Reduce intake of saturated fats found in red meat and full-fat dairy products.
   • Eliminate Trans Fats. Avoid trans fats often found in processed foods and baked goods.
   • Increase Fiber Intake. Foods rich in soluble fiber (such as oats, beans, lentils, fruits, and vegetables) can help lower LDL levels.
   • Choose Healthy Fats. Incorporate sources of healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, nuts, and fatty fish (like salmon) that contain omega-3 fatty acids.
2. Regular Physical Activity
   • Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise each week (e.g., brisk walking or cycling). Regular exercise can help raise HDL levels while lowering LDL levels.
3. Weight Management
   • Maintaining a healthy weight can help lower LDL levels and improve overall heart health.
4. Avoid Tobacco Smoke
   • Quitting smoking improves HDL cholesterol levels and benefits your cardiovascular health overall.
5. Limit Alcohol Consumption
   • If you drink alcohol, do so in moderation—up to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men—since excessive alcohol intake can lead to higher triglyceride levels.
6. Regular Monitoring
   • Keep track of your cholesterol levels through regular cholesterol laboratory testing as recommended by your doctor. This allows for timely interventions if levels become concerning.
7. Medication if Necessary
   • If lifestyle changes alone are insufficient in managing high cholesterol levels, your doctor may prescribe medications such as statins or other lipid-lowering agents.