1. What is the TC/HDL Cholesterol Ratio?

The TC/HDL (Total Cholesterol to HDL Cholesterol) ratio is a calculated value that compares the total amount of cholesterol in your blood to the amount of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. This ratio is used as an indicator of cardiovascular risk.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple ratio formula:

Where:

• Total Cholesterol — Measured in mg/dL
• HDL Cholesterol — Measured in mg/dL

Explanation: The ratio provides insight into cholesterol balance, with lower ratios generally indicating better cardiovascular health.

3. Importance of TC/HDL Ratio

Details: The TC/HDL ratio is a strong predictor of cardiovascular disease risk. A higher ratio indicates higher risk, while a lower ratio suggests better cardiovascular health.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol values in mg/dL. Both values must be positive numbers greater than zero.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good TC/HDL ratio?
A: Generally, a ratio below 5:1 is considered good, with optimal being below 3.5:1. Higher ratios indicate increased cardiovascular risk.

Q2: Why is this ratio important?
A: It provides a better cardiovascular risk assessment than looking at total cholesterol alone, as it considers the protective effect of HDL cholesterol.

Q3: How often should this ratio be checked?
A: It should be part of routine cholesterol screening, typically every 4-6 years for adults, or more frequently if risk factors are present.

Q4: Can this ratio be improved?
A: Yes, through lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy diet, weight management, and if necessary, cholesterol-lowering medications.

Q5: Are there limitations to this ratio?
A: While useful, it should be interpreted alongside other risk factors and lipid measurements for a complete cardiovascular risk assessment.