This fact sheet on blood cholesterol examines the connection between cholesterol and heart disease, lists risk factors for heart disease that can and cannot be controlled, points out who can benefit from lowering blood cholesterol, distinguishes between blood and dietary cholesterol, describes low density lipoprotein and high density lipoprotein types of cholesterol, reviews factors that affect blood cholesterol, and urges adults to have their blood cholesterol checked. Guidelines are presented for heart-healthy living, such as choosing foods low in total fat and saturated fat, choosing foods high in starch and fiber, maintaining a healthy weight, and being more physically active. Buying tips and preparation tips are offered for various types of food. Other guidelines discuss using food labels, eating out the heart healthy way, making physical activity part of one's routine, and losing weight sensibly. A question and answer section offers guidance on such concerns as cholesterol levels in children, triglycerides, and impact of blood cholesterol on longevity. Three tables list: (1) saturated fat, total fat, cholesterol, calories, and sodium for some basic foods; (2) food label claims; and (3) recommended amounts of saturated and total fat based on calorie consumption. (JDD)