Basic Heart Health Panel in California

What this test measures

The lipid panel is a standard part of cardiovascular risk assessment. It measures total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. These values help estimate risk and guide discussions about diet, activity, and further evaluation. The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL is sometimes reported as an additional summary measure.

High-sensitivity C-reactive protein measures low-level inflammation in the body. Elevated levels have been linked with cardiovascular risk in some studies, and the marker is often used alongside a lipid profile rather than on its own. Combining the two gives a broader picture than cholesterol testing alone.

The panel is used for routine screening, to follow known risk factors, and when someone has a family history or other concerns about heart health. Results do not diagnose heart disease. A qualified healthcare provider interprets them with the person's history, blood pressure, and other risk factors before making any recommendations.