1. How To Calculate Serum Cholesterol HDL Ratio

The TC/HDL ratio is a calculated parameter that compares total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol levels. This ratio is used as a marker for cardiovascular risk assessment, with lower ratios indicating better cardiovascular health.

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: The ratio provides insight into the balance between "bad" cholesterol (LDL and other non-HDL components) and "good" cholesterol (HDL).

3. Importance of TC/HDL Ratio

Details: The TC/HDL ratio is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease risk. A ratio below 5:1 is considered ideal, while ratios above 5:1 indicate increased cardiovascular risk.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol values in mg/dL. Both values must be greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good TC/HDL ratio?
A: A ratio below 3.5:1 is considered optimal, 3.5-5:1 is average risk, and above 5:1 indicates increased cardiovascular risk.

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 (low in saturated fats), maintaining healthy weight, and not smoking can improve your ratio.

Q4: Is fasting required for cholesterol tests?
A: For the most accurate results, a 9-12 hour fast is typically recommended before cholesterol testing.

Q5: 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 the balance between "bad" LDL and "good" HDL cholesterol.