However, new research reveals Americans are successfully lowering their cholesterol.
Data from the CDC show overall cholesterol levels among adults steadily declined between 1988 and 2012.
LDL, or so-called 'bad' cholesterol also dropped during this time period ... and HDL or 'good' cholesterol levels increased.
Researchers say this trend may be due to a growing number of people taking cholesterol medications ... as well as a decrease in consumption of trans fatty acids.