LDL-C Conversion Formula:
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LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol, often called "bad cholesterol," is a type of lipoprotein that carries cholesterol from the liver to tissues throughout the body. High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
The calculator uses the conversion formula:
Where:
Explanation: This conversion allows healthcare professionals and patients to interpret LDL cholesterol values in different measurement systems used globally.
Details: Accurate LDL cholesterol measurement is crucial for assessing cardiovascular risk, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering therapies such as statins.
Tips: Enter LDL cholesterol value in mmol/L. The value must be valid (≥0). The calculator will automatically convert it to mg/dL using the standard conversion factor.
Q1: Why are there different units for LDL measurement?
A: Different countries use different measurement systems. The US typically uses mg/dL, while many other countries use mmol/L.
Q2: What are optimal LDL cholesterol levels?
A: Generally, LDL levels below 100 mg/dL (2.6 mmol/L) are considered optimal, but target levels may vary based on individual risk factors.
Q3: How often should LDL cholesterol be checked?
A: Adults should have their cholesterol checked every 4-6 years, or more frequently if they have risk factors for heart disease.
Q4: Are there limitations to this conversion?
A: The conversion factor is standardized, but individual laboratory methods may have slight variations in measurement.
Q5: Should fasting be required for LDL measurement?
A: Traditionally, fasting was required, but recent guidelines suggest non-fasting measurements may be acceptable for initial screening.