Cholesterol Ratio Calculator Mmol L

Cholesterol Ratio Formula:

\[ Ratio = \frac{Total\ Cholesterol\ (mmol/L)}{HDL\ (mmol/L)} \]

Cholesterol Ratio:

Unit Converter ▲

Unit Converter ▼

From:	To:

1. What is Cholesterol Ratio?

The cholesterol ratio is calculated by dividing total cholesterol by HDL cholesterol. It provides a better indicator of cardiovascular risk than total cholesterol alone, as it reflects the balance between "bad" and "good" cholesterol.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the cholesterol ratio formula:

\[ Ratio = \frac{Total\ Cholesterol\ (mmol/L)}{HDL\ (mmol/L)} \]

Where:

Total Cholesterol — Measured in mmol/L
HDL Cholesterol — Measured in mmol/L

Explanation: The ratio indicates how much "bad" cholesterol exists relative to "good" cholesterol, with lower ratios indicating better cardiovascular health.

3. Importance of Cholesterol Ratio

Details: A lower cholesterol ratio (below 5:1) is associated with lower cardiovascular risk, while higher ratios indicate increased risk. This ratio is used by healthcare providers to assess heart disease risk and guide treatment decisions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total cholesterol and HDL values in mmol/L units. Both values must be greater than zero. The calculator will provide your cholesterol ratio as a unitless value.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good cholesterol ratio?
A: A ratio below 5:1 is considered good, with the ideal ratio being 3.5:1 or lower for optimal cardiovascular 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 such as regular exercise, healthy diet (reducing saturated fats), maintaining healthy weight, and if needed, medication.

Q4: What's the difference between mmol/L and mg/dL units?
A: mmol/L is the standard unit used in most countries outside the US. To convert mg/dL to mmol/L, divide by 38.67 for total cholesterol and by 38.67 for HDL.

Q5: Is cholesterol ratio more important than individual numbers?
A: Both are important, but the ratio provides additional context about the balance between different cholesterol types, which can be a better predictor of cardiovascular risk.