HDL and LDL are two different kinds of cholesterol that are measured as an index of a patient's risk for cardiovascular disease. HDL stands for high-density lipoprotein and LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein. Total cholesterol measures the combination of HDL, LDL and VLDL. Unlike men, a high LDL ("bad cholesterol") level is not as strong a predictor of future trouble for women, although there is still considerable debate on this. Some experts believe LDL is not to be worried about for most women, except for particular sub-groups of women who are affected. As one might expect, until the situation is clarified, the importance of LDL for women is in question.

Low HDL levels in men and women should be raised, while LDL levels, at least in men, should be lowered. Further, more detailed lab testing that breaks down LDL into subfractions, is advised for anyone with a high cardiovascular disease risk.