They say it is possible to use the reading to calculate the lifetime risk of heart disease and stroke.
The study, in The Lancet, is the most comprehensive yet to look at the long-term health risks of having too much "bad" cholesterol for decades.
They say the earlier people take action to reduce cholesterol through diet chances and medication, the better.
People should have their cholesterol level checked from their mid-20s, according to researchers.
Last modified on Thursday, 05 December 2019 14:38