National Cholesterol Education Month

National Cholesterol Education Month is observed every September to raise awareness about cholesterol, heart health, and the importance of knowing your numbers. High cholesterol usually has no symptoms, but it can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke. The month encourages people to learn about cholesterol, talk with healthcare professionals, and take practical steps to support long-term cardiovascular health.

History of National Cholesterol Education Month

National Cholesterol Education Month is connected with broader public health efforts to educate Americans about cholesterol and cardiovascular disease. In 1985, the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute launched the National Cholesterol Education Program to help reduce illness and death from coronary heart disease by improving awareness, testing, and treatment of high blood cholesterol.

September is used as a time to remind people that cholesterol problems can develop silently. A person may feel healthy and still have unhealthy cholesterol levels. That is why blood testing and conversations with a qualified healthcare professional are important, especially for people with heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, a family history of high cholesterol, or other risk factors.

Cholesterol is not always harmful. The body needs it to build cells and produce certain hormones. The problem occurs when cholesterol levels are unhealthy, especially when LDL cholesterol is too high or HDL cholesterol is too low. Over time, cholesterol can contribute to plaque buildup in arteries, which may lead to heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular problems.

Important Facts About National Cholesterol Education Month

• High cholesterol often has no symptoms, so many people do not know their levels until they have a blood test.
• According to CDC data, about 86 million U.S. adults age 20 or older have total cholesterol levels above 200 mg/dL.
• Nearly 25 million U.S. adults have total cholesterol levels above 240 mg/dL.
• Most healthy adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years, while people with higher risk may need testing more often.
• Children and adolescents should also be screened at certain ages, especially if they have obesity, diabetes, or a family history of high cholesterol.
• Healthy eating, regular physical activity, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol, managing weight, and taking prescribed medication when needed can help improve cholesterol levels.

Ways to Observe National Cholesterol Education Month

National Cholesterol Education Month can be observed by scheduling a cholesterol test or asking a healthcare professional how often you should be screened. A lipid panel can measure total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides.

You can also use the month to review daily habits that affect heart health. Choose foods lower in saturated and trans fats, eat more fiber-rich foods, stay physically active, avoid smoking, and follow medical advice if cholesterol-lowering medication has been prescribed. Sharing reliable information with family and friends can also help others take heart health more seriously.

When Is National Cholesterol Education Month in 2026?

National Cholesterol Education Month is observed annually throughout September, beginning on September 1.

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