[The Dutch National Colesterol Test: participants mainly healthy]

To determine, in people who participated in the Netherlands Heart Foundation's National Cholesterol Test in supermarkets, risk factors for cardiovascular disease and expectations concerning the test result using a questionnaire, and to compare their cholesterol levels with reference values.

Descriptive study and questionnaire survey.

Participants who underwent the National Cholesterol Test in 9 supermarkets during the summer of 2007 were invited to complete a short questionnaire about risk factors for cardiovascular disease and expectations concerning the test result. Statements about the intention to change behaviour were offered, and the measured total cholesterol level was recorded.

The average age of the 684 respondents was 57 years (SD: 16); 72% were female. Participants had on average a lower risk of cardiovascular disease than the general population; they suffered less frequently from diabetes, hypertension and being overweight, and smoked less. The measured cholesterol level was 5.0-6.5 mmol/l in 37% and > 6.5 mmoll in 11%. Elevated cholesterol levels were less common in this group than in the general population. The intention to change behaviour was substantial.

The results of this study showed that the National Cholesterol Test reached relatively many healthy, somewhat worried people. The intention to change behaviour was substantial.