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National Cholesterol Education Month

Get heart-healthy this September with National Cholesterol Education Month - learn how to lower your cholesterol levels and improve your overall health!

Tuesday

1–30

September 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

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YEARLY DATEAll of September

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

Get ready to learn all about your cholesterol levels and how to keep them in check because September is National Cholesterol Education Month! This month-long observance was created by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute to raise awareness about the importance of maintaining healthy cholesterol levels for overall heart health. Did you know that high cholesterol can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke? But fear not, there are many ways to improve your cholesterol through diet and lifestyle changes. So let's celebrate this month by taking care of our hearts and spreading awareness about the importance of cholesterol education!

TIMELINE

National Cholesterol Education Month Timeline

Discovery of Cholesterol

Nikolai Anichkov and his team discovered the presence of cholesterol in arterial plaques, beginning a century-long investigation of its roles and functions.

Framingham Heart Study

Kickstarted in 1948, this long-term cardiovascular study discovered that high cholesterol was one of the major risk factors for heart disease.

Establishment of NHBLI

The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) was established to fund critical health research related to heart diseases, including cholesterol.

National Cholesterol Education Program

Created by NHLBI, this program aimed to educate healthcare professionals and the public about high blood cholesterol as a risk factor for heart disease.

First Statins Approved

FDA approved the first statin, Lovastatin, for lowering cholesterol. It marked a big milestone in heart disease treatments.

National Cholesterol Education Month

NHLBI launch National Cholesterol Education Month to raise public awareness about the dangers of high cholesterol and promote healthier lifestyles.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate National Cholesterol Education Month

Organize a healthy cooking competition

Invite your friends and family to participate in a healthy cooking competition where everyone has to create a dish that is low in cholesterol. This will not only be a fun way to celebrate National Cholesterol Education Month, but also promote heart-healthy eating.

START

Start a walking challenge

Get your coworkers or friends involved in a walking challenge for the month. Set a goal for number of steps or distance and track your progress throughout the month. This will not only help with lowering cholesterol, but also promote physical activity.

HOST

Host a heart-healthy potluck

Gather some friends and family for a heart-healthy potluck where everyone brings a dish that is low in cholesterol. This will not only be a delicious way to celebrate National Cholesterol Education Month, but also an opportunity to try new recipes and learn about heart-healthy ingredients.

ATTEND

Attend a cholesterol education seminar

Search for local seminars or workshops about cholesterol education and attend one. This will not only educate you on the topic, but also provide an opportunity to ask any questions you may have.

START

Start a virtual support group

Create a virtual support group with friends or family who are also trying to lower their cholesterol. Share tips, recipes, and support each other in reaching your health goals. This will not only be a great way to celebrate National Cholesterol Education Month, but also provide ongoing support and motivation.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why National Cholesterol Education Month is Important

It provides access to resources and support

During National Cholesterol Education Month, various organizations offer educational events, campaigns, and screenings to help people monitor and manage their cholesterol levels. This creates an opportunity for individuals to access valuable resources and support that can aid in their journey towards better heart health.

It raises awareness about heart health

September is National Cholesterol Education Month, and it serves as an important reminder for everyone to pay attention to their cholesterol levels. High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other serious health issues. This month encourages people to educate themselves on ways to manage and reduce their cholesterol levels.

It promotes healthy lifestyle choices

National Cholesterol Education Month focuses not just on cholesterol levels, but also on overall heart health. This includes promoting regular exercise, a balanced diet, and maintaining a healthy weight. By providing information and resources, this month encourages individuals to make positive changes in their lifestyle habits.

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