1. What is LDL Cholesterol?

LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol is often called "bad" cholesterol because high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries and increase risk of heart disease and stroke. The Friedewald formula is commonly used to estimate LDL cholesterol when direct measurement is not available.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Friedewald formula:

Where:

• \( Total Cholesterol \) — Total cholesterol level in mg/dL
• \( HDL \) — HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol in mg/dL
• \( Triglycerides \) — Triglyceride level in mg/dL

Note: This formula is valid only when triglyceride levels are less than 400 mg/dL. For higher triglyceride levels, direct LDL measurement is recommended.

3. Importance of LDL Calculation

Details: Monitoring LDL cholesterol is crucial for assessing cardiovascular risk and guiding treatment decisions. The American Heart Association recommends keeping LDL cholesterol below 100 mg/dL for optimal heart health.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter all values in mg/dL. For accurate results, these values should be from a fasting blood test (9-12 hours of fasting). All values must be positive numbers.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are the normal ranges for LDL cholesterol?
A: Optimal: <100 mg/dL; Near Optimal: 100-129 mg/dL; Borderline High: 130-159 mg/dL; High: 160-189 mg/dL; Very High: ≥190 mg/dL.

Q2: When is the Friedewald formula not accurate?
A: The formula is less accurate when triglyceride levels exceed 400 mg/dL, in non-fasting samples, or in patients with certain medical conditions like diabetes.

Q3: How often should LDL cholesterol be checked?
A: Adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4-6 years. Those with risk factors may need more frequent testing as recommended by their healthcare provider.

Q4: What factors can affect LDL cholesterol levels?
A: Diet, exercise, weight, genetics, medications, and certain medical conditions can all influence LDL cholesterol levels.

Q5: How can I lower my LDL cholesterol?
A: Lifestyle changes including a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, and if needed, cholesterol-lowering medications as prescribed by your doctor.