Cholesterol Ratio Calculator
Work out your total-to-HDL cholesterol ratio and non-HDL cholesterol from a lipid test.
About the Cholesterol Ratio Calculator
The ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol is used in heart-risk tools such as the UK's QRISK. A lower ratio is better; under 3.5 is ideal and over 5 signals raised risk. Non-HDL cholesterol (total minus HDL) captures all the harmful types.
The formula
Ratio = total cholesterol ÷ HDL cholesterol (same units)
- mmol/L to mg/dL
- × 38.67
Worked example
Example: Total / HDL ratio = 3.97
- Inputs: Units: mg/dL; Total cholesterol: 250; HDL (“good”) cholesterol: 63.
- Formula: Ratio = total cholesterol ÷ HDL cholesterol (same units)
- Result: Total / HDL ratio = 3.97
- Non-HDL cholesterol: 187 mg/dL
- HDL in mg/dL: 63
Things to keep in mind
- This is an estimate for general information, not medical advice. Talk to a doctor or other qualified professional about your health.
- Ratios are one part of heart risk; age, blood pressure, smoking and diabetes matter too.
Questions people ask
Does the unit matter for the ratio?
No, as long as both numbers use the same unit.
What is a good HDL?
Above about 40 mg/dL (1.0 mmol/L) for men and 50 mg/dL (1.3 mmol/L) for women.