When to Have a Cholesterol Test

Overview

Doctors use guidelines to decide when you should have a cholesterol test and how often.

Checking cholesterol levels regularly may be recommended:

• Every 4 to 6 years for everyone ages 20 to 39 and more often for adults ages 40 to 75.
• For anyone who has risk factors (such as family history) for coronary artery disease, heart attack, or stroke.

How often you should get a cholesterol test also depends on your cholesterol level, other health problems, and your overall risk of heart disease.

An adult who is being treated for high cholesterol may need more frequent tests, depending on the cholesterol level and the type of treatment being used.

Children and teens

Your child's doctor may suggest a cholesterol test based on your child's age, a physical exam, or a family history of early heart disease or an inherited lipid disorder. You can ask your child's doctor if your child should have a cholesterol test.