1. What is Canadian Cholesterol Calculation?

The Canadian cholesterol calculation formula estimates total cholesterol (TC) from HDL, LDL, and triglyceride values using the equation: TC = HDL + LDL + (TG / 2.2). This formula follows Canadian guidelines and uses mmol/L units for all measurements.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the Canadian cholesterol formula:

Where:

• \( TC \) — Total Cholesterol (mmol/L)
• \( HDL \) — HDL Cholesterol (mmol/L)
• \( LDL \) — LDL Cholesterol (mmol/L)
• \( TG \) — Triglycerides (mmol/L)

Explanation: This formula provides a comprehensive calculation of total cholesterol by combining the major cholesterol components with appropriate conversion for triglycerides.

3. Importance of Cholesterol Calculation

Details: Accurate cholesterol calculation is essential for assessing cardiovascular risk, monitoring lipid-lowering therapy effectiveness, and guiding dietary and lifestyle interventions.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter HDL, LDL, and triglyceride values in mmol/L. All values must be valid (non-negative numbers). The calculator will compute total cholesterol using the Canadian formula.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why divide triglycerides by 2.2 in the formula?
A: The division by 2.2 converts the triglyceride contribution to equivalent cholesterol units, as approximately 2.2 mmol/L of triglycerides contributes to 1 mmol/L of total cholesterol.

Q2: What are normal cholesterol values in Canada?
A: Generally, total cholesterol <5.2 mmol/L is desirable, HDL >1.0 mmol/L is protective, LDL <3.4 mmol/L is optimal, and triglycerides <1.7 mmol/L is normal.

Q3: When should cholesterol be measured?
A: Fasting for 9-12 hours is recommended for accurate triglyceride measurement, though non-fasting samples may be acceptable for total cholesterol screening.

Q4: Are there limitations to this calculation?
A: This calculation assumes standard lipid metabolism and may be less accurate in certain medical conditions or with extremely high triglyceride levels.

Q5: How often should cholesterol be checked?
A: Adults should have cholesterol checked every 4-6 years, or more frequently if risk factors exist or if monitoring treatment effectiveness.