1. What is HDL Cholesterol?

HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol is often called "good cholesterol" because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream. Higher levels of HDL are associated with a lower risk of heart disease.

2. How Does the Conversion Work?

The calculator uses the conversion formula:

This conversion factor (38.67) is based on the molecular weight of cholesterol and is the standard conversion used in clinical practice.

3. Importance of HDL Measurement

Details: HDL cholesterol measurement is an important component of lipid profile testing. It helps assess cardiovascular risk and guide treatment decisions for cholesterol management.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your HDL cholesterol value in mmol/L units. The calculator will instantly convert it to mg/dL, which is commonly used in many countries including the United States.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why convert between mmol/L and mg/dL?
A: Different countries use different units for cholesterol measurement. The US typically uses mg/dL, while many other countries use mmol/L. Conversion allows for consistent interpretation of results.

Q2: What are optimal HDL levels?
A: Generally, HDL levels above 60 mg/dL (1.55 mmol/L) are considered protective against heart disease, while levels below 40 mg/dL (1.03 mmol/L) for men or 50 mg/dL (1.29 mmol/L) for women may increase risk.

Q3: Is the conversion factor the same for all cholesterol types?
A: No, different cholesterol fractions (LDL, total cholesterol) have slightly different conversion factors due to their molecular compositions.

Q4: How can I increase my HDL levels?
A: Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, and consuming healthy fats can help increase HDL levels.

Q5: Should I fast before HDL testing?
A: HDL levels are not significantly affected by recent food intake, so fasting is not strictly necessary for HDL measurement alone.