High blood lipids can damage your blood vessels and lead to cardiovascular disease. Blood lipid measurements include:

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• Total blood cholesterol – the total amount of cholesterol in your blood

• LDL (Low-density lipoprotein)

• Triglyceride levels

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High HDL (High-density lipoprotein) levels are beneficial and can be increased with exercise

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To lower your blood cholesterol levels, your doctor may prescribe a statin. Statins inhibit an enzyme called HMG-CoA reductase that reduces LDL, total cholesterol and triglyceride levels in your blood.

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Your doctor will be able to discuss with you the benefits of statins and other treatments to lower your blood lipids.

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REFERENCE

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The Royal Australian College of General Practitioners. Management of type 2 diabetes: A handbook for general practice. East Melbourne, Vic: RACGP, 2020.

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