High Cholesterol Causes and Risk Factors

High cholesterol isn't always genetic. Either way, you can take steps to prevent and control it. Learn what puts you at risk and what to do if you are.

Mature couple walking down dirt road

Get the Lowdown on Low HDL Cholesterol Levels

Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD

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Factors That Could Be Causing Your High Triglycerides

Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD

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Causes of Secondary Hyperlipidemia

Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD

Child and doctor

What Is Tangier Disease?

Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD

close up of man smoking a cigarette

How Smoking Affects Your Cholesterol and Heart

Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD

An African-American suffering from chest pain.

The Connection Between Race and High Cholesterol

Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD

Test tube filled with blood and cholesterol test form document

Human Growth Hormone and Your Cholesterol

Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD

burger and fries

5 Things That Could Adversely Affect Your Cholesterol Levels

Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD

a senior woman holding her chest

Estrogen Protects a Woman's Heart After Menopause

Medically reviewed by Brian Levine, MD

A diabetic testing her blood sugar.

How High Blood Sugar Affects Your Cholesterol Level

Medically reviewed by Jeffrey S. Lander, MD

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How Important Are Triglyceride Levels for Cardiac Health?

Medically reviewed by Jeffrey S. Lander, MD

An older woman asleep

Can Your Lack of Sleep Cause You to Have High Cholesterol?

Medically reviewed by Richard N. Fogoros, MD