Cholesterol/HDL Ratio

Total cholesterol divided by HDL cholesterol, a simple summary of the balance between atherogenic and protective lipids.

Ranges vary by laboratory, method, age and sex: always use the range printed on your own report. Why labs differ.

What it measures

This ratio is calculated from two measured values: total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. A lower ratio means a greater share of cholesterol is in HDL rather than in ApoB-containing particles.

Why it matters

The ratio predicts cardiovascular risk somewhat better than total cholesterol alone and is used in several risk calculators. It is a convenient summary but does not replace LDL-C, non-HDL-C or ApoB.

What a high result can mean

A high ratio results from high total/LDL cholesterol, low HDL, or both, and is often seen with insulin resistance, obesity, smoking and inactivity.

What a low result can mean

A low ratio is generally favorable and does not indicate a problem.

What affects the result

Fasting is not required. Anything that raises HDL or lowers LDL and triglycerides improves the ratio: exercise, weight loss, smoking cessation, dietary changes and lipid-lowering medication.

Unit

Usually reported in ratio.

Also called on lab reports

Chol/HDL Ratio, CHOL/HDLC RATIO, T. Chol/HDL Ratio, Total Cholesterol/HDL Ratio, TC/HDL Ratio, Chol/HDL-C Ratio, Cholesterol/HDL-C Ratio

Related tests: Lipids & Cardiovascular Risk

• Total Cholesterol
• LDL Cholesterol
• HDL Cholesterol
• Triglycerides
• Non-HDL Cholesterol
• VLDL Cholesterol
• LDL Particle Number
• Small LDL Particles
• LDL Particle Size
• HDL Particle Number
• Apolipoprotein B
• Apolipoprotein A1

This page is educational and does not replace advice from a healthcare professional.