Treatment for high cholesterol generally centers on reducing low-density lipoproteins (LDL). For higher-risk patients, goals for LDL levels are set based on each patient’s risk category. These therapeutic goals are as follows (in milligrams per deciliter [mg/dL]):

A therapeutic goal is the target that physicians hope to reach through therapies to lower their patients’ LDL. Such therapy usually includes lifestyle changes (e.g., diet and exercise) and the use of cholesterol reducing medications. The two stages of therapeutic goals (primary and secondary) give physicians the option of a lower goal for some patients.