Dear Sir Thanks for writing to us. Drug therapy in lipid management is now a days not based on total cholesterol levels but on Target LDL cholesterol , for which following information is required 1. If you have a blood relation who has had heart attack or anginal heart disease? And, if yes, then at what age it started? 2. What is your HDL cholesterol level.3. If you have /had stroke (paralysis), kidney disease, carotid blockage, anginal heart disease, claudication of limbs (pain in legs on walking). All these have a bearing on the target cholesterol level and management. Once we calculate the target cholesterol and patient has LDL higher than target ( 30 mg% than target) we start with a statin (drugs to reduce cholesterol like crestor)and life style modifications but if actual LDL is less than 30+target, we only try life style modifications for 6-12 weeks. However presence of existing cardiovascular disease is an indication for statins irrespective of LDL levels. Lifestyle modifications include weight optimization (Body Mass Index~23), daily exercise (as prescribed by your physician), Avoid smoking & STEP II diet of American heart association. I hope you understand that how we approach and what information we require. sincerely sukhvinder singh