University Health Services

High blood cholesterol is a major risk factor for heart disease, the leading cause of death among adults in the United States. That is, the higher your blood cholesterol level, the greater your risk for developing heart disease or having a heart attack or stroke. According to the American Heart Association, nearly 105 million Americans age 20 and older have high cholesterol and about more than half are women.

To reduce your risk of developing heart disease, heart attack, and stroke, it is important to know your blood cholesterol level. Because cholesterol itself does not produce physical symptoms, many people are unaware that their cholesterol level is high. The National Cholesterol Education Program (NCEP) of the National Institutes of Health (NIH) recommends that adults aged 20 years and over have their cholesterol levels checked at least every five years.

Employee Healh at University Health Services (UHS) invites all faculty and staff to start off the school year with a cholesterol screening performed right on campus. This confidential program takes place over 2 sessions. Participants will first have a fasting blood sample drawn and tested for cholesterol levels. At a one-on-one follow-up session, an Employee Health professional will conduct a brief physical exam, discuss risk reduction techniques, and help participants develop a strategic plan to improve their health. Specialist care if needed will be advised. Program cost is $15.

To schedule your cholesterol screening, contact Peggy Henke, Office Manager for Employee Health, at 258-5035; phenke@princeton.edu.