Total Cholesterol is exactly the same as a Cholesterol or Blood Cholesterol tests, just a different name.
Cholesterol is different from most tests in that it is not always used to diagnose or monitor a disease but is used to estimate the risk of developing a disease — specifically heart disease. Because high blood cholesterol is associated with hardening of the arteries, heart disease and a raised risk of death from heart attacks, cholesterol testing is considered a routine part of preventive health care.
For those under 20 years of age and at low risk, cholesterol testing is not requested routinely. However, screening for high cholesterol as part of a lipid profile is recommended for children and youths who are at increased risk of developing heart disease as adults. Some of the risk factors are similar to those in adults and include
Family history. History of high cholesterol or heart disease in close relatives particularly if occurring before age 55 in women or 65 in men. If the family history is not known, a cholesterol test is recommended, especially if other risk factors are present.
Being overweight or obese. When the youth’s body mass index (BMI) is elevated, cholesterol testing is recommended.
Consuming excessive amounts of cholesterol and saturated fats
Diabetes mellitus
High blood pressure (hypertension)
Smoking cigarettes
