Which HDL-C level is considered desirable to be above for cardiovascular health?

Which HDL-C level is considered desirable to be above for cardiovascular health?

• A. Under 40 mg/dL
• B. Above 40 mg/dL
• C. Exactly 60 mg/dL
• D. Between 50 and 60 mg/dL

Answer: (B)

HDL cholesterol is the “good” cholesterol because it helps remove cholesterol from arteries and carry it to the liver for disposal, contributing to reverse cholesterol transport and anti-inflammatory effects. Because of its protective role, keeping HDL above the level clinicians consider protective lowers cardiovascular risk. That’s why the correct choice is the idea of staying above that protective threshold—it reflects the goal of avoiding insufficient HDL. The other statements imply levels that are too low, or prescribe a specific high number or narrow range that isn’t the standard target for reducing cardiovascular risk.

HDL cholesterol is the “good” cholesterol because it helps remove cholesterol from arteries and carry it to the liver for disposal, contributing to reverse cholesterol transport and anti-inflammatory effects. Because of its protective role, keeping HDL above the level clinicians consider protective lowers cardiovascular risk. That’s why the correct choice is the idea of staying above that protective threshold—it reflects the goal of avoiding insufficient HDL. The other statements imply levels that are too low, or prescribe a specific high number or narrow range that isn’t the standard target for reducing cardiovascular risk.