Lifestyle and Genetic Risk Factors for High Cholesterol

What lifestyle factors increase the risk of high cholesterol?

There are a number of lifestyle factors associated with high cholesterol, according to Robert Segal, MD, Cardiologist at Manhattan Cardiology in New York City. Some of the biggest lifestyle risk factors for high cholesterol include:

• Smoking

• Eating an unhealthy diet, particularly one high in saturated fats and trans fats

• Not exercising regularly

• Having excess weight

What health conditions increase the risk of high cholesterol?

People with Type 2 diabetes may also have an increased risk of high cholesterol. Treating your Type 2 diabetes and having stable blood sugar can help reduce the risk of developing high cholesterol.

Does high cholesterol run in families?

Less commonly, some people have high cholesterol despite following a heart-healthy lifestyle. Familial hypercholesterolemia is “a genetic disorder where you may inherit a gene from one parent or one grandparent, which causes them to have high cholesterol,” says Segal. 

When high cholesterol is caused by lifestyle factors, it usually appears in your 30s, 40s, and beyond. People who have high cholesterol that runs in families tend to have high cholesterol at an earlier age. They may also be at risk of a heart attack or stroke at an earlier age. 

This is why regular testing is so important. In fact, adolescents should get their first cholesterol test between the ages of 9 and 11, and then repeat every five years. If heart disease runs in their family, they may need to start cholesterol tests earlier and/or get them more often.

How can you manage your risk of high cholesterol?

You may be able to reduce your risk of high cholesterol by partnering with your healthcare team. They can help by:

• Suggesting and supporting lifestyle changes

• Referring you to other professionals who can help, such as a registered dietitian

• Possibly prescribing medications to lower cholesterol

• Treating other conditions, such as Type 2 diabetes or high blood pressure

Knowing your risk, being mindful of your lifestyle, and monitoring your cholesterol levels may help reduce your risk of heart attack and stroke as you age. If you’re not sure how often you should receive a cholesterol test, have a conversation with your primary care doctor.

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Written by:

Lauren Smith, MA

Lauren Smith, MA, has worked in health journalism since 2017. Before joining GoodRx, she was the senior health editor and writer for HealthiNation.

Reviewed by:

Mera Goodman, MD, FAAP

Mera Goodman, MD, FAAP, is a board-certified pediatrician. Prior to practicing medicine, she worked as a management consultant.

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