Cholesterol is a waxy substance that is produced endogenously by the body as well as consumed with meals. Cholesterol can be found in animal and plant foods. In spite of the fact that cholesterol is notorious for being a factor in the development of vascular disorders and is widely regarded as being detrimental to health, the synthesis of vitamin D, estrogen, and testosterone are all processes that depend on cholesterol. Since it is transported from peripheral tissues to the liver for metabolism, high-density lipoprotein, also known as "good cholesterol," is considered to be the healthiest form of cholesterol. Because it is transported toward peripheral tissues, the type of cholesterol known as low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is considered to be "bad." Atherosclerosis, which can lead to heart attacks and strokes, can be caused by LDL because it can clog arteries.

Because people with high cholesterol levels rarely experience symptoms, it is important to regularly check one's cholesterol levels using blood tests and at-home testing kits. Medications known as statins (including atorvastatin, pravastatin, and others), cholesterol absorption inhibitors, nicotinic acid, fibrates, and combination therapy can be used to bring down the levels of cholesterol that are present in the blood.