Total Cholesterol
This test measures the total amount of cholesterol in the blood. It helps assess cardiovascular risk and overall lipid health.
Turnaround time
1 day
Biomarkers count
1
Book your test
Choose Service Type
Professional phlebotomist comes to you
+ £{{ home_visit_fee }}
Visit our clinic for your test
{{ clinic_visit_fee > 0 ? '+ £' + clinic_visit_fee : 'Free' }}
Home Visit Details
Home visits require at least 24 hours notice.
Select a clinic: Sorting by distance…
{{ clinic.full_address }}
{{ selectedClinic.full_address }}
Select a date
Select an hour
Available time slots: {{ timeSlots.length}}
Details about Total Cholesterol
What is the Total Cholesterol Test?
The Total Cholesterol test measures the overall amount of cholesterol circulating in the bloodstream. Cholesterol is a fat-like substance essential for hormone production, cell membranes and vitamin D synthesis.
Total cholesterol includes all major cholesterol fractions combined, primarily low-density lipoprotein (LDL), high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and very low-density lipoprotein (VLDL). While cholesterol is necessary for normal bodily function, elevated levels are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
This test is commonly used as part of routine health screening and cardiovascular risk assessment.
Why do I need a test for Total Cholesterol?
You may need this test to evaluate your risk of heart disease and stroke, particularly if you have risk factors such as family history, high blood pressure or diabetes. High cholesterol typically causes no symptoms and may remain undetected without testing.
Measuring total cholesterol supports early identification of lipid imbalance and guides decisions around lifestyle changes or further testing.
Symptoms and scenarios where testing is recommended:
- Routine cardiovascular screening
- Family history of heart disease
- High blood pressure
- Diabetes or metabolic syndrome
- Overweight or obesity
- Smoking history
- Monitoring lipid-lowering therapy
- Preventive health assessment
Benefits of the Total Cholesterol Test
- Provides a general lipid overview
Offers a snapshot of overall cholesterol levels. - Supports cardiovascular risk assessment
Helps identify increased heart disease risk. - Useful for routine health screening
Commonly included in standard blood tests. - Guides need for further lipid testing
Indicates when a full lipid profile is required. - Supports early prevention strategies
Enables lifestyle modification before complications arise. - Tracks changes over time
Useful for monitoring trends in cholesterol levels. - Simple and widely available test
Requires only a standard blood sample. - Clinically established marker
Used worldwide in preventive medicine.
Step-by-Step: How Testing Works
Choose your preferred testing method
You can attend one of our UK partner clinics or arrange a home or hotel visit with a mobile phlebotomist.
Option 1 – In-Clinic Blood Draw
- Select your nearest UK clinic and book an appointment.
- A clinician or phlebotomist collects a venous blood sample.
- The sample is analysed for total cholesterol levels.
- Results are delivered securely online.
Option 2 – Home or Hotel Phlebotomy (+£60)
- Book a UK-wide home or hotel visit at a convenient time.
- A trained phlebotomist collects your blood sample on-site.
- The sample is transported to the laboratory.
- Results are uploaded digitally without the need to travel.
Your Results Explained
Low Levels
Low total cholesterol is uncommon and may be associated with malnutrition, chronic illness or certain metabolic conditions.
Clinical correlation is required to determine significance.
Normal Levels
Normal total cholesterol levels suggest balanced lipid metabolism.
This is generally associated with lower cardiovascular risk.
High Levels
Elevated total cholesterol increases the risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack and stroke.
Further breakdown into LDL and HDL cholesterol is usually recommended.
Typical UK reference range:
- Desirable: below 5.0 mmol/L
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.