1. What is HDL LDL Ratio?

The HDL LDL Ratio is a calculated value that compares the levels of LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) to HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol) in the blood. It provides a more comprehensive assessment of cardiovascular risk than looking at individual cholesterol levels alone.

2. How Does the Calculator Work?

The calculator uses the simple formula:

Where:

• \( LDL-C \) — LDL Cholesterol level in mmol/L
• \( HDL-C \) — HDL Cholesterol level in mmol/L

Explanation: The ratio divides your LDL cholesterol value by your HDL cholesterol value to give a dimensionless number that indicates your cardiovascular risk profile.

3. Importance of HDL LDL Ratio

Details: A lower ratio indicates better cardiovascular health. Generally, a ratio below 3.5 is considered ideal, while ratios above 5.0 indicate higher cardiovascular risk. This ratio is particularly useful in assessing heart disease risk in the UK population using mmol/L units.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Enter both LDL and HDL cholesterol values in mmol/L (UK standard units). Both values must be greater than zero for accurate calculation.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What is a good HDL LDL ratio?
A: Generally, a ratio below 3.5 is considered optimal, 3.5-5.0 is average risk, and above 5.0 indicates higher cardiovascular risk.

Q2: Why use mmol/L units?
A: mmol/L (millimoles per liter) is the standard unit for cholesterol measurement in the UK and most countries outside the United States.

Q3: How often should I check my cholesterol ratio?
A: Adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4-6 years, or more frequently if you have risk factors for heart disease.

Q4: Can I improve my HDL LDL ratio?
A: Yes, through lifestyle changes such as regular exercise, healthy diet (reducing saturated fats), maintaining healthy weight, and if needed, cholesterol-lowering medications.

Q5: Is this ratio more important than individual cholesterol numbers?
A: Both individual numbers and the ratio are important. The ratio provides additional context about the balance between protective (HDL) and harmful (LDL) cholesterol.