1. What is Total Cholesterol?

Total cholesterol is a measurement of the total amount of cholesterol in your blood, including both low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. It is measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) through a blood test.

2. How is Cholesterol Measured?

Total cholesterol is directly measured from a blood sample:

Note: Unlike calculated values, total cholesterol is a direct measurement obtained from blood analysis in a laboratory setting.

3. Importance of Cholesterol Testing

Details: Monitoring total cholesterol levels is crucial for assessing cardiovascular health risk. High cholesterol levels can indicate increased risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter your laboratory-measured total cholesterol value in mg/dL. This calculator simply displays your result for reference purposes.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What are normal total cholesterol levels?
A: Desirable total cholesterol is below 200 mg/dL. Borderline high is 200-239 mg/dL, and high is 240 mg/dL and above.

Q2: How often should cholesterol be tested?
A: Adults should have cholesterol checked every 4-6 years. Those with risk factors may need more frequent testing.

Q3: Is fasting required for cholesterol tests?
A: For a full lipid panel, 9-12 hours of fasting is typically required. Check with your healthcare provider for specific instructions.

Q4: What affects cholesterol levels?
A: Diet, exercise, weight, age, gender, genetics, and certain medications can all influence cholesterol levels.

Q5: Can I calculate cholesterol at home?
A: While home test kits are available, laboratory testing provides the most accurate results for clinical decision-making.