Lipid Panel Explained: Cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and ApoB
LDL is not the only number that matters. Modern cardiovascular risk assessment relies on non-HDL and ApoB just as much.
The core numbers
A standard lipid panel reports total cholesterol, LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol), HDL-C (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), and triglycerides. Non-HDL cholesterol is derived by subtracting HDL from total; it captures all atherogenic particles in one number.
Canadian guidelines target LDL-C below 2.0 mmol/L (or a 50% reduction) for secondary prevention and higher-risk primary prevention. For lower-risk primary prevention, LDL-C below 3.5 mmol/L combined with lifestyle is a common goal.
Advanced markers: ApoB and Lp(a)
ApoB (apolipoprotein B) counts the actual number of atherogenic particles rather than the cholesterol carried inside them. When triglycerides are elevated or LDL-C is normal but risk still seems high, ApoB is the more accurate marker.
Lp(a) is a mostly-genetic risk marker measured once in a lifetime. Values above 100 nmol/L (roughly the top 20%) raise cardiovascular risk independently of LDL and warrant a more aggressive prevention plan.
Preparing for a lipid panel
Fast for 10–12 hours if triglycerides are being measured; water and prescribed medications are permitted. Avoid alcohol for 24 hours and intense exercise for 12 hours — both can transiently distort triglycerides.
Book a lipid panel draw
Ready to book? Reserve a private blood collection appointment on our Book Blood Collection page, or request a private requisition through blood test prescription.
Frequently asked questions
Do I still need to fast for lipids?+
For a first assessment or when triglycerides matter clinically, yes. Follow-up cholesterol monitoring can often be non-fasting.
Is a single high LDL result enough to start medication?+
Almost never — decisions rest on trend, global cardiovascular risk, and shared decision-making.