1. What is the TC/HDL Ratio?

The TC/HDL ratio is a cardiovascular risk assessment tool that compares total cholesterol to HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol levels. It provides insight into cholesterol balance and cardiovascular health risk.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the TC/HDL ratio formula:

Where:

• TC — Total cholesterol measured in mg/dL
• HDL — HDL cholesterol measured in mg/dL

Explanation: This simple ratio helps assess cardiovascular risk by comparing the "bad" cholesterol components to the "good" HDL cholesterol.

3. Importance of TC/HDL Ratio Calculation

Details: The TC/HDL ratio is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease risk. Lower ratios indicate better cholesterol balance and lower cardiovascular risk, while higher ratios suggest increased risk.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol values in mg/dL. Both values must be positive numbers 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 cardiovascular health.

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

Q3: Can lifestyle changes improve my TC/HDL ratio?
A: Yes, regular exercise, healthy diet (rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains), maintaining healthy weight, and avoiding smoking can improve your ratio.

Q4: What's the difference between TC/HDL ratio and LDL/HDL ratio?
A: TC/HDL includes all cholesterol components, while LDL/HDL focuses specifically on "bad" LDL vs "good" HDL cholesterol. Both provide valuable risk assessment information.

Q5: Should I fast before cholesterol testing?
A: For most accurate results, a 9-12 hour fast is recommended before cholesterol testing, though non-fasting tests can also provide useful information.