This may surprise you, but more women than men suffer from high cholesterol levels in the U.S.

And it's not just a condition that affects one ethnic group. The prevalence is spread almost evenly across all nationalities. High cholesterol affects about 16 percent of white men and nearly 18 percent of white women.

Among Mexican-Americans, the numbers are roughly the same. More than 17 percent of Mexican-American men are saddled with high cholesterol levels, while nearly 14 percent of Mexican American females are diagnosed with it.

Among African-Americans, the numbers are slightly lower. About 11 percent of African-American women are burdened with this.

Numbers Increase with Age

Not only that, but the older you get -- regardless of nationality -- the greater your risk of developing high total cholesterol levels. Check out the chart below to see.