Final answer:
Optimal LDL levels are below 100 mg/dL, near-optimal are from 100 to 129 mg/dL, borderline high are between 130 and 159 mg/dL, high are from 160 to 189 mg/dL, and very high LDL levels are 190 mg/dL or above.
Step-by-step explanation:
For low-density lipoproteins (LDL), which are often referred to as "bad cholesterol", different levels are clinically categorized to help identify cardiovascular risk.
Optimal LDL levels are considered to be less than 100 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Near-optimal levels range from 100 to 129 mg/dL, while borderline high levels are between 130 and 159 mg/dL. High LDL levels are defined as being from 160 to 189 mg/dL, and levels of 190 mg/dL or above are considered to be very high.
The goal is to keep LDL levels low to prevent the buildup of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.