Physicians generally recommend maintaining total cholesterol levels below 200 mg/dL. Levels between 200-239 mg/dL are considered borderline high, while levels above 240 mg/dL are regarded as high. It's important to manage cholesterol levels to reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke. Guidelines suggest maintaining healthy levels of both LDL (bad cholesterol) and HDL (good cholesterol) to ensure a balanced lipid profile. Regular check-ups and healthy lifestyle choices, including diet and exercise, are vital for managing cholesterol levels.