1. What is Cholesterol Ratio?

The cholesterol ratio is a simple calculation that compares your total cholesterol to your HDL (good) cholesterol. It's used as an indicator of cardiovascular disease risk, with lower ratios generally indicating lower risk.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the cholesterol ratio formula:

Where:

• Total Cholesterol — Measured in mg/dL
• HDL Cholesterol — Measured in mg/dL

Explanation: This simple ratio provides a quick assessment of heart disease risk by comparing your total cholesterol to your protective HDL cholesterol.

3. Importance of Cholesterol Ratio

Details: The cholesterol ratio is a valuable tool for assessing cardiovascular risk. A ratio below 5:1 is considered good, while a ratio above 5:1 indicates higher risk. Some experts suggest aiming for a ratio of 3.5:1 or lower for optimal heart health.

4. Using the Calculator

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

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good cholesterol ratio?
A: A ratio of 5:1 or below is considered good, while 3.5:1 is considered optimal for heart health.

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, a heart-healthy diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and if needed, medication.

Q4: Is the cholesterol ratio more important than individual numbers?
A: Both are important. While the ratio provides a quick assessment, your healthcare provider will consider all your cholesterol numbers along with other risk factors.

Q5: What if my ratio is high?
A: Consult with your healthcare provider who may recommend lifestyle changes, additional testing, or medications to help improve your cholesterol profile.