High cholesterol is a higher than normal level of cholesterol in
the blood. It is more common in adults but can occur in
children. There are two main types of cholesterol. One is high
density lipoproteins (HDL) or good cholesterol. High levels of
HDL have been linked to a lower risk of heart disease. The
second type is called low density lipoproteins (LDL) or bad
cholesterol. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to
blockages in the blood vessels. This can lead to heart attacks
and strokes . High cholesterol may be caused by a combination of
factors, such as: - A high-fat diet and low activity levels -
Being overweight or obese - Being prone to high cholesterol due
to your genes Risk factors include: - Having a family history of
high cholesterol or heart disease or stroke - Having high blood
pressure - Having certain conditions (eg, diabetes, kidney
disease , underactive thyroid) - Some medicines (eg, steroids,
isotretinoin [acne medicine], beta-blockers, protease
inhibitors, diuretics, cyclosporin) Screeni