Total-to-HDL Cholesterol Ratio
Assess cardiovascular risk by analyzing the ratio of total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
The "good" cholesterol.
Why the Ratio Matters
While LDL (the "bad" cholesterol) is the primary target for therapy, the ratio of Total Cholesterol to HDL is highly predictive of coronary heart disease. It demonstrates the balance between atherogenic (plaque-building) particles and protective particles.
If total cholesterol is high, but HDL is also exceptionally high, the total risk profile is much lower than if total cholesterol is high and HDL is low.
American Heart Association Guidelines
- Optimal: A ratio of 3.5 to 1 or lower.
- Average/Moderate Risk: A ratio around 5.0 to 1.
- High Risk: A ratio greater than 5.0 to 1 indicates a significantly elevated risk of heart disease and warrants physician intervention.