Cardiovascular condition
Life expectancy with high cholesterol
Raised cholesterol contributes to the narrowing of arteries and is a modifiable cardiovascular risk factor.
What the research suggests
High cholesterol on its own modestly raises cardiovascular risk over time, and the effect on life expectancy is generally small when it is managed. It matters most in combination with other risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
What changes the outlook
Statins where indicated, a heart-healthy diet, physical activity, and managing other risk factors reduce the associated risk.
What helps
- Statins where indicated
- Heart-healthy diet
- Physical activity
- Managing other cardiovascular risk factors
Estimate your own range
Answer around a dozen short questions and get a five-year age range based on your profile. It takes about two minutes.
Start the estimatorCommon questions
Does high cholesterol reduce life expectancy?
High cholesterol on its own modestly raises cardiovascular risk over time, and the effect on life expectancy is generally small when it is managed. It matters most in combination with other risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, and diabetes.
What improves the outlook with high cholesterol?
Statins where indicated, a heart-healthy diet, physical activity, and managing other risk factors reduce the associated risk.
Can I get a personal estimate?
This tool gives a statistical estimate as a five-year range based on your overall profile, including high cholesterol alongside your other answers. It is not a prediction. For personal medical guidance, speak to a GP or specialist.