1. What is Cholesterol Risk Ratio?

The Cholesterol Risk Ratio (TC/HDL Ratio) is a calculated value that compares your total cholesterol to your HDL (good) cholesterol. This ratio is used to assess cardiovascular risk, with higher values indicating increased risk of heart disease.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( TC \) — Total cholesterol (mg/dL)
• \( HDL \) — HDL cholesterol (mg/dL)

Explanation: This ratio provides a better indicator of heart disease risk than looking at total cholesterol alone, as it considers the protective effect of HDL cholesterol.

3. Importance of Risk Ratio Calculation

Details: The TC/HDL ratio is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease. Lower ratios are associated with lower risk, while higher ratios indicate increased risk of heart attacks and other cardiovascular events.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total cholesterol and HDL values in mg/dL. Both values must be greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good TC/HDL ratio?
A: Generally, a ratio below 5:1 is considered acceptable, below 4:1 is good, and below 3.5:1 is optimal for heart health.

Q2: Why is this ratio important?
A: It provides a more comprehensive view of cholesterol status than individual values alone, accounting for both "bad" and "good" cholesterol components.

Q3: How often should this ratio be checked?
A: Adults should have their cholesterol levels checked every 4-6 years, or more frequently if you have risk factors for heart disease.

Q4: Can this ratio be improved?
A: Yes, through lifestyle changes like regular exercise, healthy diet (reducing saturated fats), maintaining healthy weight, and if needed, cholesterol-lowering medications.

Q5: Are there limitations to this ratio?
A: While useful, it doesn't account for other important risk factors like triglycerides, LDL particle size, or other cardiovascular risk factors.