I too believe I suffer from this.  My mother's cholesterol was fine...at around 170 (in her late 60s to early 70s).  My father never had his checked but died at 61 of a ruptured abdominal aortic aneurysm.  My cholesterol has been as high as 317 at one test but usually remains at or above the 200 level.  My triglycerides are sometimes fine & other times elevated.  This elevation did not start until I was in my mid to late 40s.  I am now 62.  I am presently doing 30 min. of exercise every day (elliptical & biking or walking) & am on Crestor 10 mg.  I had previously tried Pravachol 20 mg. (it initially lowered my cholesterol almost 100 pts.) but after 5 yrs. or so was no longer effective.  I would like to know more about the testing for the familial factor.  I have no xanthomas that I am aware of but would like to keep this level under control.  I try to work on my diet but unfortunately love fried foods but am trying to eat more fish.  Does anyone know if grouper is a heart healthy fish?