Alarming new data from Medichecks reveals that over 50%* of Brits have dangerously high cholesterol levels—many without even realising it.
With heart disease remaining the UK’s leading cause of death, experts are warning that high cholesterol is a silent killer that puts millions at risk of heart attacks and strokes.
Shockingly, one in every 250 Brits is born with dangerously high cholesterol due to a genetic condition called familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH), meaning they face a heart attack risk decades earlier than expected.
Home blood testing company Medichecks’ latest findings highlight an urgent need for the public to take action and check their heart health.
What is Cholesterol?
Cholesterol is a fatty substance in our blood, produced naturally in the liver. Every cell in our body needs cholesterol to stay healthy, as it plays a key role in maintaining cell membranes, producing vitamin D, bile acid, and essential hormones like testosterone and oestrogen. However, too much of the wrong type of cholesterol can be dangerous.
Dr. Natasha Fernando, Medical Director Medichecks, explains: “There are two types of cholesterol – good and bad. High-density lipoproteins (HDL) help remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream, while low-density lipoproteins (LDL) carry cholesterol to the arteries. Too much LDL can lead to blockages in blood vessels, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.”
One in 250 People Have High Cholesterol From Birth – Are You One of Them?
When it comes to high cholesterol, many of us assume it’s simply the result of unhealthy eating or getting older. But for some, the story is very different. Familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) is a genetic condition that causes high cholesterol from birth. It’s passed down through families and means that about 1 in 250 people are born with high cholesterol – putting them at serious risk of heart disease long before the average person even notices a problem.
While lifestyle factors like diet and exercise certainly affect cholesterol levels, FH is not your fault. It’s caused by a gene mutation that makes your body unable to clear the harmful LDL cholesterol from your bloodstream, leading to a lifelong elevated risk. And the danger is more serious than you might think: people with FH can have the same heart attack risk as someone twice their age.
Typically though, a specialist would refer you for a familial hypercholesterolaemia (FH) DNA test which looks for several gene mutations, if your cholesterol were found to be very high.
The Shocking Truth: You Don’t Have to Be Overweight to Have High Cholesterol
Despite common misconceptions, high cholesterol isn’t just a problem for those who are overweight. Even slim, active individuals can have dangerously high levels, putting them at serious risk.
Dr. Natasha Fernando, Medical Director at Medichecks, explains: “Many people assume they’re safe just because they don’t ‘look’ unhealthy. But the reality is that high cholesterol can affect anyone, regardless of their weight, diet, or lifestyle. The only way to know your risk is to get tested.”
Are You at Risk? The Warning Signs of High Cholesterol
High cholesterol does not usually cause symptoms. You can only find out if you have it from a blood test however these signs could indicate a problem:
Early signs:
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Yellowish bumps or build up of cholesterol appear on or around the eye lids (xanthelasma).
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Greyish/white rings around the cornea (Corneal arcus). This is normal as people get older, but in younger individuals is usually due to raised lipids.
More advanced signs include:
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Aching pain while walking or exercising, chest pain and shortness of breath.
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You might experience sudden dizziness, loss of balance, blurred vision, numbness, or confusion.
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Heart attack: You might experience severe chest pain, flushing, nausea, and difficulty breathing. This is a medical emergency.
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Stroke: High cholesterol can lead to stroke.
5 Simple Ways to Lower Your Cholesterol
The good news? Small changes can make a big difference. Try these expert-approved tips:
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Eat Heart-Healthy Foods – Swap saturated fats for healthy fats found in nuts, seeds, and olive oil.
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Get Moving – Just 30 minutes of walking a day can help lower cholesterol.
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Quit Smoking – If you smoke, stopping can dramatically improve your heart health.
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Cut Down on Sugar & Processed Foods – Opt for whole foods over packaged snacks.
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Check Your Levels Regularly – Knowledge is power! A simple cholesterol test can give you the information you need to take control of your health.
How Can I Check My Cholesterol Levels?
Because high cholesterol often has no obvious signs, the only way to know your levels is through a blood test. An at-home cholesterol test from Medichecks provides fast, accurate results from the comfort of your home.
With the Cholesterol Blood Test (£39), you can measure your levels of triglycerides, LDL, and HDL cholesterol and determine your risk of heart disease based on your total cholesterol-to-HDL ratio. This test also checks non-HDL cholesterol, which includes all non-protective and potentially harmful cholesterol, making it an effective marker for cardiovascular risk.
Core Health Blood Test £49.50 from £55. Designed to give you a comprehensive overview of key health markers, this test assesses your risk of diabetes and heart disease — similar to the NHS Health Check. Whether you’re monitoring your cholesterol, blood sugar, or overall heart health, this test provides valuable insights to help you stay on top of your well-being. This test measures HbA1c to assess long-term blood sugar levels and a full cholesterol panel (HDL, LDL, non-HDL, total cholesterol, total cholesterol:HDL ratio, and triglycerides).
For those looking for deeper insights, the Advanced Heart Disease Risk Blood Test (£217) which offers an in-depth risk review based on an advanced cholesterol panel and inflammation markers. Ideal for those with a family history of heart disease or those worried that their lifestyle may be putting them at an increased risk.
With the Optimal Health Blood Test (£249), you can gain a comprehensive overview of your health with 59 key biomarkers. This test includes advanced heart health markers like Lp(a) and apolipoproteins, along with assessments for diabetes risk, inflammation, hormones, thyroid function, and immune health. It also checks kidney and liver function, iron status, and essential vitamins, providing a complete picture of your overall well-being. Designed for those looking to optimise their long-term health, this panel offers valuable insights to help you take control of your future.
- Laura Selwyn
