What is referred to as "bad cholesterol" that lines the arteries with excess cholesterol?

Prepare for the Praxis Health Education Test (5551). Utilize flashcards and multiple choice questions, each with hints and explanations. Get exam-ready!

Multiple Choice

What is referred to as "bad cholesterol" that lines the arteries with excess cholesterol?

Explanation:
The term "bad cholesterol" specifically refers to low-density lipoproteins (LDL). These lipoproteins are responsible for transporting cholesterol from the liver to the cells throughout the body. However, when there is an excess of LDL in the bloodstream, it can lead to a buildup of cholesterol in the walls of arteries, contributing to atherosclerosis—a condition that narrows and hardens the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke. In contrast, high-density lipoproteins (HDL) are known as "good cholesterol" because they help remove cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it back to the liver, where it can be processed and eliminated. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood and are not classified as cholesterol, while cholesterol esters are storage forms of cholesterol in the body and play a different role in lipid metabolism. Therefore, recognizing LDL as "bad cholesterol" is crucial for understanding lipid profiles and their impact on cardiovascular health.

The term "bad cholesterol" specifically refers to low-density lipoproteins (LDL). These lipoproteins are responsible for transporting cholesterol from the liver to the cells throughout the body. However, when there is an excess of LDL in the bloodstream, it can lead to a buildup of cholesterol in the walls of arteries, contributing to atherosclerosis—a condition that narrows and hardens the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

In contrast, high-density lipoproteins (HDL) are known as "good cholesterol" because they help remove cholesterol from the bloodstream and transport it back to the liver, where it can be processed and eliminated. Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood and are not classified as cholesterol, while cholesterol esters are storage forms of cholesterol in the body and play a different role in lipid metabolism. Therefore, recognizing LDL as "bad cholesterol" is crucial for understanding lipid profiles and their impact on cardiovascular health.

Subscribe

Get the latest from Examzify

You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our privacy policy