The cholesterol/HDL ratio divides total cholesterol by HDL. It summarises the balance between harmful and protective cholesterol.
- Normal range (adults)
- Below 5
- Sample
- Blood
- Fasting
- Not usually needed
- Also called
- Cholesterol/HDL Ratio, Serum cholesterol/HDL ratio, TC/HDL, Chol/HDL, Total Cholesterol HDL Ratio, Cardiac Risk Ratio, Cholesterol HDL ratio
Cholesterol/HDL Ratio normal range
| Group | ValueSame unit in all countries |
|---|---|
| Adults | Below 5 |
Ranges vary slightly between laboratories. The range printed on your own report is the one to go by.
Why is the Cholesterol/HDL Ratio test done?
It gives a quick overall picture of heart risk from your lipid profile.
What does a high Cholesterol/HDL Ratio level mean?
A higher ratio means more harmful cholesterol relative to protective HDL. Below 3.5 is ideal; above 5 indicates increased risk.
Common causes
- High LDL
- Low HDL
- Inactivity and overweight
- Smoking
- Diabetes
Diet and lifestyle tips
- Raise HDL with exercise and stopping smoking
- Lower LDL with fibre, healthy oils and less saturated fat
- Cut sugar and refined carbohydrates
When should you see a doctor?
Your doctor will use the ratio along with blood pressure, sugar, age and family history to estimate your overall risk.
Last updated
This page is for general education and is not a diagnosis. Normal ranges differ between laboratories, so always compare your result with the reference range printed on your own report, and discuss abnormal results with your doctor.