What is cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a blood fat which plays a vital role in how all of our cells work. It's also needed for digestion, to make Vitamin D, and to make hormones which keep your bones strong. Learn more.
Find out about cholesterol
What are triglycerides?
Whenever you find out about your cholesterol levels, you should also find out about your triglycerides.
Triglycerides are another type of blood fat. If they become too high in the blood, this can raise the risk of heart disease and other illnesses.
Download our booklets
Download our free booklets for children and adults about cholesterol and living with cholesterol conditions.
Some people will need treatments to manage their cholesterol
There are different types of medicines and treatments available to help you manage the amount of cholesterol and other fats in your blood.
Statins are the most widely used medicine, but there are other types too. They all tend to work best when you eat well and keep active.
You might be referred to a lipid clinic where experts in blood fats can find the best treatment for you.
High cholesterol and your genes
Sometimes high cholesterol and triglycerides are caused by inherited conditions that are passed down through families.
Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH)
FH can affect the whole family
FH is an inherited condition, which means that parents can pass the gene on to their children. It’s natural to feel worried and have lots of questions. Have a look at the links on the right to start to find some answers.
Rianna’s story
Just before her 12th birthday, seconds after finishing a cross country run, Rianna’s heart stopped beating.
Being a parent
You may have questions about what FH means for your children. We look at getting a test, healthy living and other treatments.
Children and young people with FH
Living with FH means you can still be fit and healthy. We have lots of tips and information on keeping active and healthy eating.