What should you know about a familial cholesterol test?

A familial cholesterol test assesses whether unusually high cholesterol may be inherited and guides checking and treatment for relatives. It usually starts with a lipid profile and a detailed family and personal history; genetic testing may be considered in selected situations.

Inherited high cholesterol can cause high LDL cholesterol from an early age, sometimes without symptoms. A result is interpreted with cholesterol levels, relatives with early cardiovascular disease, physical findings, and other causes such as thyroid disease or medicines. A negative genetic result does not always remove concern if the family pattern remains strong.

Bring any previous cholesterol results and ask which relatives should be offered assessment. Healthy eating, activity, smoking cessation, and weight management support heart health, but lifestyle changes may not fully correct inherited LDL elevation. If treatment is advised, statin therapy is one option your clinician may discuss, including benefits, monitoring, and pregnancy-related considerations.

Book a timely appointment if very high cholesterol has been found, especially when a parent, sibling, or child has had cardiovascular disease at an unusually young age. Seek emergency help for chest pressure, sudden breathlessness, facial drooping, or weakness on one side, regardless of your test result.

Ask which cholesterol measure is concerning, whether secondary causes have been checked, and whether genetic counselling or testing is useful. Ask which relatives should be screened, what target is appropriate for you, and how often results and medicines should be reviewed.