Which type of lipoprotein is considered 'bad cholesterol'?

• A. HDL cholesterol
• B. LDL cholesterol
• C. VLDL cholesterol
• D. Chylomicrons

Answer: (B)

Lipoproteins carry fats through the bloodstream, and their impact on heart disease risk depends on their type. The one labeled as "bad cholesterol" is LDL cholesterol. LDL delivers cholesterol to all cells, but it can also deposit cholesterol in the walls of arteries. When LDL levels are high, more cholesterol accumulates in the arterial intima, becomes oxidized, and attracts immune cells to form plaques that narrow or block arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. HDL, in contrast, helps remove cholesterol from arteries and carries it back to the liver for disposal, which is why it’s considered protective. VLDL and chylomicrons mainly transport triglycerides and aren’t the ones typically called "bad cholesterol," though high triglyceride-rich lipoproteins can contribute to risk in other ways. The bottom line: LDL is the lipoprotein most associated with harmful cholesterol deposition in arteries.