Total cholesterol includes three main categories of lipids: LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol and triglycerides.

Total cholesterol levels are often used as a screening for patients who may be at risk for lipid abnormalities.

National Cholesterol Education Program Guidelines

If your total cholesterol level is : Your classification is : Less than 200 mg/dL Desirable blood cholesterol 200 to 239 mg/dL Borderline-high blood cholesterol More than 240 mg/dL High blood cholesterol