This is a real-world medical entrance exam question, please give the true answer based on the question and selection. Topic name: C.V.S., Subject name: Medicine
A 49-year-old man has his serum lipids measured. Which pattern suggests the lowest risk for CAD? 
Select and explain. 
A. total cholesterol 215 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol 28 mg/dL, B. total cholesterol 215 mg/dL, HDL cholesterol 43 mg/dL, C. total cholesterol 180 mg/dL, HDL cholesterol 29 mg/dL, D. total cholesterol 202 mg/dL, HDL cholesterol 45 mg/dL
D: total cholesterol 202 mg/dL, HDL cholesterol 45 mg/dL
Answer: D: total cholesterol 202 mg/dL, HDL cholesterol 45 mg/dL 
Explanation: This combination, although the total cholesterol is borderline, has high HDL cholesterol, which is protective. Nevertheless, a level this high would likely require treatment.