What is the full form of LDL

LDL: Low Density Lipoprotein

LDL stands for low-density lipoprotein. It is a molecule made of lipid (fat) and protein. A LDL is a large, less dense and less stable molecule than high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and makes up most of our body's cholesterol. The major function of LDL is to transport cholesterol from the liver to the body tissues. LDL molecules tend to deposit plaque on arterial walls that may clog arteries and result in cardiovascular disease. So, LDL is called "bad" cholesterol. On the other hand, HDL (high-density cholesterol) is considered good cholesterol as it helps remove other harmful forms of cholesterol from the blood. People should be aware of their levels of "good" and "bad" cholesterol.

Let us understand it in a simple way:

Cholesterol is a fat which is insoluble in water so cannot be transported in blood on its own. So, cholesterol is attached to certain proteins that act as transport vehicles and are able to carry different types of fats like cholesterol, phospholipids, and triglycerides. So, when the fat (cholesterol) combines with protein it becomes a lipoprotein.

Thus, amount of cholesterol carried by low-density lipoproteins help predict the risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD). LDL-C reflects the amount of cholesterol carried by LDL.