Understanding high cholesterol is key to preventing heart disease. Controllable factors include diet, exercise, weight, smoking, and alcohol, while genetics, age, and medical conditions also play a role. Managing lifestyle choices can improve cholesterol levels.

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in every cell of your body. Your body needs cholesterol to make hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help you digest foods. Your liver produces all the cholesterol your body needs.