What does the acronym HDL refer to in medical terms?

The acronym HDL stands for High-Density Lipoprotein, which is a type of lipoprotein responsible for transporting cholesterol in the bloodstream. It is often referred to as "good" cholesterol because higher levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease. HDL helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream and carries it back to the liver for processing and excretion. This function is crucial in maintaining cardiovascular health and preventing plaque buildup in the arteries, which can lead to conditions such as atherosclerosis. Understanding HDL is essential for interpreting lipid panels and assessing an individual's cardiovascular risk.