Lipid Profile (Cholesterol Test)
Measures cholesterol and other fats in your blood to check heart-attack risk.
Also called: Cholesterol test, lipid panel
What is it?
The lipid profile measures total cholesterol, LDL (the 'bad' cholesterol), HDL (the 'good' cholesterol) and triglycerides. Doctors use it to judge heart and blood-vessel risk.
How to prepare
Many labs ask for 9 to 12 hours of fasting (water is allowed). Some labs now accept a non-fasting sample. Follow your booking instructions.
Report time: Usually the same day or next day.
Usual numbers
| Measure | Typical adult range |
|---|---|
| Total cholesterol | below 200 mg/dL is desirable |
| LDL cholesterol | below 100 mg/dL is optimal for most adults |
| HDL cholesterol | above 40 mg/dL (men) or 50 mg/dL (women) is better |
| Triglycerides | below 150 mg/dL is normal |
Ranges are typical values used in India. Every lab prints its own range on your report, and that range is the one to follow. A number outside the range does not always mean disease. Your doctor decides what it means for you.
What labs charge
| Lab | Price | City | Source | Checked |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tata 1mg Labs | ₹439 | Page shows Gurgaon; city not confirmed | 1mg.com lab packages page | 13 Nov 2026 |
Prices change often and can differ by city, home collection and offers. Always confirm the final price on the lab’s own page before you book. Labs not listed here have not been checked yet.
Questions people ask
Do I need to fast for a lipid profile?
Often yes, 9 to 12 hours. Some labs allow non-fasting. Check your booking.
How often should I test cholesterol?
Your doctor will advise. Many adults test once every year or two, and more often if they have diabetes, high blood pressure or a family history.
Medical review: This page is general information. A qualified doctor will review our medical pages and the reviewer’s name and date will be shown here. Until then, please treat it as a starting point and speak to your doctor.