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Understanding the Test
Test Measures
FAQ's
References
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Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio

You need to provide
Blood
This test is for
Male, Female
Test Preparation
  1. Overnight fasting (8-12 hrs) is required. Do not eat or drink anything except water before the test.

Understanding Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio


What is Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio?

The Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test is a simple blood test that measures the ratio of total cholesterol and high-density lipoproteins (HDL). This test is used to evaluate your cardiovascular health, especially when you have risk factors like obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure. It is often done as part of routine health checkups or lipid profiles. 

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance found in all the cells of the body. It is mainly synthesized in the liver and partially in the intestines. It is essential for the production of hormones and vitamin D and the digestion of food. Cholesterol acts as a building block for cell membranes, serves as a precursor to vital hormones, and helps in the production of bile acids that digest fats. It is transported through the blood by two kinds of proteins: low-density lipoprotein (LDL), or the "bad" cholesterol, and high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or the “good” cholesterol. An optimal amount of these proteins is necessary for the proper body functioning. HDL, LDL, and 20 percent of triglycerides (a type of fat in the blood) sum up the total cholesterol of the body. 

Although referred to as bad, LDL cholesterol is not essentially unhealthy. Your body needs it in an optimum amount for nerve protection, cell production, and hormone synthesis. However, excessive amounts of LDL may clog or block the blood vessels (plaque formation). On the other hand, HDL cholesterol plays a vital role in maintaining a healthy cardiovascular system. It transports cholesterol back to the liver, where it is broken down and eliminated from the body, thus reducing the risk of cholesterol buildup and heart disease. 

The Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio helps determine the risk of cardiovascular disease. A lower ratio is considered optimal, putting you at a very low risk for heart disease, whereas a high ratio is generally associated with an elevated risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attack, stroke, and angina. This test can be advised if you have risk factors for high cholesterol/HDL ratios like genetics, smoking, obesity, and a sedentary lifestyle. Usually, overnight fasting (8-12 hours) is preferred for this test. Do not eat or drink anything except water before the test. 

Different methodologies may yield slightly different results depending on laboratory guidelines. Talk to your doctor about your specific test results. The results will help them evaluate your medical condition; make recommendations for diet, exercise, or medication; and formulate an overall treatment plan.

What is Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio used for?

The Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test is done:

  • As part of routine health checkups to measure the levels of total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol in the blood.

  • To determine an individual's risk of developing heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.

  • To detect early elevated levels in individuals with a family history of high cholesterol levels or premature heart disease.

What does Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio measure?

The Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test measures the ratio of total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL)/good cholesterol in your blood which is a significant indicator of cardiovascular health. This ratio is calculated by dividing the total cholesterol by the HDL number. A high ratio indicates a higher amount of 'bad' cholesterol relative to 'good' cholesterol, implying a higher risk of developing heart disease. Conversely, a lower ratio implies a higher amount of 'good' cholesterol relative to 'bad' cholesterol, indicating a lower risk.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio


Frequently Asked Questions about Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio

Q. What is the Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test?

The Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test is a blood test that measures the ratio of total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein (HDL or “good” cholesterol) in the body.

Q. Why is the purpose of the Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test?

The Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test provides a more comprehensive look at your heart health than total cholesterol levels alone. A lower ratio indicates a low risk of heart disease, and a higher ratio indicates a high risk of heart disease.

Q. How is the Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test performed?

A phlebotomist (a trained professional to perform blood draws) will clean your skin using an antiseptic alcohol cotton swab or wipe, and take a blood sample from your vein using a needle. The blood sample will be stored safely and transported to the laboratory for analysis.

Q. Is there any risk associated with the Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test?

The risks associated with this test are minimal and primarily related to the blood draw, which can cause minor bruising, bleeding, or infection at the puncture site. Applying ice 3-4 times a day for about a week may help reduce swelling and bruising. If it does not get better, consult your doctor.

Q. Do I need to fast before the Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio test?

Yes, fasting for 8 to 12 hours is usually preferred before this test, which means you need to avoid eating or drinking anything other than water.

Q. What are the signs and symptoms associated with high cholesterol levels?

High cholesterol is a silent condition without any typical symptoms. Most people do not even realize they have high cholesterol levels until it is detected through a blood test. Although, high cholesterol levels may cause complications such as atherosclerosis, heart attack, stroke, peripheral arterial disease, etc.

Q. What should I do if my results show a high Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio?

If your Total Cholesterol/HDL Cholesterol Ratio is high, consult your doctor immediately. They may recommend lifestyle changes such as exercising regularly, maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet low in saturated and trans fats, and quitting smoking. In some cases, they may also recommend medication. Regular follow-up testing will also likely be necessary to monitor your progress.

Q. How can I maintain my cholesterol levels naturally?

You must consult your doctor if you have high cholesterol levels. However, you can maintain your cholesterol levels by making a few changes in your lifestyle, such as eating a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, maintaining healthy body weight, managing stress, and avoiding alcohol and smoking.
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References

  1. HDL (Good), LDL (Bad) Cholesterol and Triglycerides [Internet]. Dallas, Texas: American Heart Association; 06 Nov. 2020 [Accessed 08 Sept. 2023]. Available from: https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/hdl-good-ldl-bad-cholesterol-and-triglycerides#:~:text=HDL%20cholesterol%20can%20be%20thought,and%20passed%20from%20the%20bodyExternal Link
  2. Gordon DJ, Probstfield JL, Garrison RJ, et al. High-density lipoprotein cholesterol and cardiovascular disease. Circulation Research. 1989 Jan. 01; 79(1):8-15. [Accessed 08 Sept. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/01.cir.79.1.8External Link
  3. Mineo C, Shaul PW. Novel Biological Functions of High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol. Circulation Research. 2012 Sept. 28; 111(8):1079-1090. [Accessed 08 Sept. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/full/10.1161/CIRCRESAHA.111.258673External Link
  4. Abbott RD, Wilson PW, Kannel WB, et al. High density lipoprotein cholesterol, total cholesterol screening, and myocardial infarction. The Framingham Study. ATVB. 1988 May 01; 8(3):207-211. [Accessed 08 Sept. 2023]. Available from: https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/abs/10.1161/01.ATV.8.3.207External Link
  5. Hooper PL, Visconti L, Garry PJ, et al. Zinc Lowers High-Density Lipoprotein-Cholesterol Levels. JAMA. 1980 Oct. 24; 244(17):1960–1961. [Accessed 08 Sept. 2023]. Available from: https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jama/article-abstract/372223External Link
  6. Gofman JW, Lindgren F. The role of lipids and lipoproteins in atherosclerosis. Science. 1950 Feb 17;111(2877):166-71. [Accessed 08 Sept. 2023]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15403115/External Link
  7. Law MR, Wald NJ, Rudnicka AR. Quantifying effect of statins on low density lipoprotein cholesterol, ischaemic heart disease, and stroke: systematic review and meta-analysis. BMJ. 2003 Jun 28;326(7404):1423. [Accessed 08 Sept. 2023]. Available from: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12829554/External Link

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