1. What is Cholesterol Ratio?

The cholesterol ratio is calculated by dividing your total cholesterol value by your HDL cholesterol level. It's a useful indicator of cardiovascular health, with lower ratios generally indicating lower heart disease risk.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the cholesterol ratio formula:

Where:

• Total Cholesterol — Measured in millimoles per liter (mmol/L)
• HDL — High-density lipoprotein cholesterol measured in millimoles per liter (mmol/L)

Explanation: This simple ratio provides insight into your cardiovascular risk profile by comparing your "bad" cholesterol (represented in total cholesterol) to your "good" cholesterol (HDL).

3. Importance of Cholesterol Ratio

Details: The cholesterol ratio is considered by many healthcare providers to be a better indicator of heart disease risk than total cholesterol alone. A ratio below 5:1 is considered good, with the ideal ratio being 3.5:1 or lower.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your total cholesterol and HDL values in mmol/L (Canadian standard units). Both values must be greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a healthy cholesterol ratio?
A: A ratio of 5:1 is considered average risk, 3.5:1 is considered ideal, and ratios above 5:1 indicate higher cardiovascular risk.

Q2: How often should I check my cholesterol ratio?
A: Adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4-6 years, or more frequently if you have risk factors for heart disease.

Q3: Can I improve my cholesterol ratio?
A: Yes, through lifestyle changes like regular exercise, healthy diet (reducing saturated fats), maintaining healthy weight, and if needed, medication.

Q4: Why use mmol/L instead of mg/dL?
A: Canada uses the metric system and mmol/L is the standard unit for cholesterol measurement in Canadian healthcare.

Q5: Is the cholesterol ratio the only important cholesterol measurement?
A: No, while useful, healthcare providers also consider LDL levels, triglycerides, and other risk factors when assessing cardiovascular health.