‘Severe pain’ could be warning sign of high cholesterol levels enlarging the spleen

The NHS states that high cholesterol is caused by eating fatty food, not exercising enough, being overweight, smoking and drinking alcohol.

Though it can also run in families, most people can lower their cholesterol by eating healthily and getting more exercise.

Scientific Director at YorktTest, Doctor Gill Hart, commented: “High cholesterol can often lay silent, but if not addressed it can potentially lead to a heart attack or stroke.

“The statistics around young people, in particular, are interesting as those in their 20s and 30s may be unaware that this issue is even affecting them.