Cholesterol is a type of fat (lipid) found in your body that helps build cells and make hormones. Your body needs some cholesterol, but having too much in your blood increases the risk of heart disease and stroke. Cholesterol travels through your blood, and when levels increase, your risk of heart disease and stroke can go up. Getting your cholesterol checked helps you understand your levels and protect your heart health.
People with Diabetes Type 2 are at increased risk of cardiovascular disease, are more prone to having high cholesterol (lipid) levels and should have a blood test to check their lipid (cholesterol/fat) levels regularly. Lipid levels for people with Diabetes should be checked at the time of diabetes diagnosis and annually. Lipid levels should also be checked when starting lipid-lowering drugs and 4-12 weeks after the starting or adjustment of lipid-lower drugs, e.g., changes in dosages or type of medication.
The two main types of cholesterol are: LDL cholesterol , which is the “bad” cholesterol, and HDL, which is “good” cholesterol. Too much LDL or too little HDL can cause plaque buildup in the arteries that supply your heart and brain, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke .
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the body. They store excess energy from your diet. A high triglyceride level combined with high LDL cholesterol or low HDL cholesterol is linked to fatty buildups within the artery walls, which increases the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Lipid Level Targets:
Cholesterol: < 199
Triglycerides: < 150
LDL: < 70 mg/dL for prevention < 55 mg/dL for people with cardiovascular disease
HDL: > 40 mg/dL for men > 50 mg/dL for women
If you have Diabetes and your lipid levels have not been checked within a year, ask your healthcare provider to order the lab work. If your levels are not at target, treatment can include lifestyle interventions like weight loss, increased physical activity, and eating healthier by reducing saturated and trans-fat intake and increasing intake of omega-3 fatty acids. Treatment could also include medications such as statins (first choice) or other medications if not meeting targets or not able to tolerate statins.
References: American Diabetes Association 2026, American Heart Association 2026