High cholesterol is caused by a combination of factors, including lifestyle choices and genetics. Factors that can contribute to high cholesterol levels include inactivity, obesity, and an unhealthy diet that is high in saturated and trans fats. Smoking and certain medical conditions such as chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and HIV/AIDS can also cause unhealthy cholesterol levels. Additionally, genetics can play a role in making it more difficult for the body to remove LDL cholesterol from the blood or break it down in the liver. High cholesterol can lead to the buildup of fatty deposits in the blood vessels, which can eventually cause a heart attack or stroke. It is important to get regular blood tests to check cholesterol levels and to make lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly to help prevent high cholesterol.