What is the difference between HDL and LDL cholesterol. How do cholesterol ratios impact heart health. What are optimal cholesterol levels for adults and children. How can you improve your cholesterol profile.

The Basics of Cholesterol: HDL, LDL, and Total Cholesterol Explained

Cholesterol is a vital substance produced by the liver and found in certain foods. While essential for various bodily functions, an imbalance in cholesterol levels can significantly impact heart health. To understand cholesterol’s role in our bodies, it’s crucial to differentiate between its two main types: HDL (high-density lipoprotein) and LDL (low-density lipoprotein).

HDL cholesterol is often referred to as “good” cholesterol because it helps remove other forms of cholesterol from the bloodstream. On the other hand, LDL cholesterol is known as “bad” cholesterol due to its tendency to build up in artery walls, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.

Total cholesterol is the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood, which includes:

• LDL (low-density lipoproteins)
• HDL (high-density lipoproteins)
• Triglycerides (another type of fat that can accumulate in the body)

The HDL to LDL Ratio: A Key Indicator of Cardiovascular Health

The ratio of HDL to LDL cholesterol is a crucial factor in assessing cardiovascular health. A higher ratio of HDL to LDL is generally considered beneficial. This ratio is calculated by dividing the HDL cholesterol level by the LDL cholesterol level.

Is a higher HDL to LDL ratio always better? While a higher ratio is generally favorable, it’s essential to consider the individual levels of HDL and LDL cholesterol as well. Optimal ratios typically fall between 3.5 to 1 and 5 to 1.

Interpreting Your HDL to LDL Ratio

• Below 3.5 to 1: Excellent
• 3.5 to 1 to 5 to 1: Good
• Above 5 to 1: Needs improvement

Keep in mind that while the ratio is important, it should not be the sole focus when assessing cardiovascular health. Individual HDL and LDL levels, as well as total cholesterol and triglyceride levels, should also be considered.

Optimal Cholesterol Levels for Adults: Breaking Down the Numbers

Understanding optimal cholesterol levels is crucial for maintaining good heart health. The American Heart Association and other health organizations provide guidelines for desirable cholesterol levels in adults. These values are typically measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) and are based on fasting measurements.

Total Cholesterol

• Good: Less than 200 mg/dL
• Borderline: 200-239 mg/dL
• High: 240 mg/dL or higher

HDL Cholesterol

• Ideal: 60 mg/dL or higher
• Acceptable: 40 mg/dL or higher for men, 50 mg/dL or higher for women
• Low: Less than 40 mg/dL for men, less than 50 mg/dL for women

LDL Cholesterol

• Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL
• Near optimal: 100-129 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 130-159 mg/dL
• High: 160-189 mg/dL
• Very high: 190 mg/dL or higher

Triglycerides

• Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 150-199 mg/dL
• High: 200-499 mg/dL
• Very high: 500 mg/dL or higher

Do these levels apply to everyone? While these guidelines are generally applicable, it’s important to note that individual health conditions, risk factors, and genetic predispositions may necessitate different target levels. Always consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Cholesterol Levels in Children: A Different Perspective

Cholesterol management isn’t just for adults; it’s also crucial for children’s long-term health. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children have their cholesterol levels checked between ages 9 and 11, and again between ages 17 and 21.

For children, the optimal cholesterol levels differ from those of adults:

Total Cholesterol

• Good: 170 mg/dL or less
• Borderline: 170-199 mg/dL
• High: 200 mg/dL or higher

HDL Cholesterol

• Good: Greater than 45 mg/dL
• Borderline: 40-45 mg/dL

LDL Cholesterol

• Good: Less than 110 mg/dL
• Borderline: 110-129 mg/dL
• High: 130 mg/dL or higher

Triglycerides

• For children 0-9 years:
  • Good: Less than 75 mg/dL
  • Borderline: 75-99 mg/dL
  • High: 100 mg/dL or higher
• For children 10-19 years:
  • Good: Less than 90 mg/dL
  • Borderline: 90-129 mg/dL
  • High: 130 mg/dL or higher

Why do children need their cholesterol checked? Early detection of abnormal cholesterol levels can help prevent the development of heart disease later in life. Lifestyle interventions and, in some cases, medication can be implemented to manage cholesterol levels in children effectively.

Factors Influencing Cholesterol Levels: Age, Gender, and Lifestyle

Cholesterol levels are influenced by a variety of factors, some of which are within our control and others that are not. Understanding these factors can help in managing cholesterol levels more effectively.

Age and Cholesterol

As we age, cholesterol levels tend to rise. This is partly due to changes in metabolism and partly due to the cumulative effects of lifestyle choices over time. Regular cholesterol checks become increasingly important as we grow older.

Gender Differences in Cholesterol

Men and women typically have different cholesterol profiles. Men generally have a higher risk of elevated cholesterol levels at a younger age. However, women’s risk increases after menopause, as the protective effects of estrogen diminish.

How do cholesterol guidelines differ for men and women? The main difference lies in the recommended HDL levels:

• For men: HDL should be 40 mg/dL or higher
• For women: HDL should be 50 mg/dL or higher

Lifestyle Factors Affecting Cholesterol

Several lifestyle factors can significantly impact cholesterol levels:

1. Diet: Consuming foods high in saturated and trans fats can increase LDL cholesterol.
2. Physical Activity: Regular exercise can help increase HDL cholesterol and lower LDL cholesterol.
3. Weight: Being overweight or obese tends to increase LDL cholesterol and lower HDL cholesterol.
4. Smoking: Tobacco use lowers HDL cholesterol and increases the risk of heart disease.
5. Alcohol Consumption: Moderate alcohol intake may increase HDL cholesterol, but excessive drinking can lead to high triglycerides and other health issues.

Can lifestyle changes significantly impact cholesterol levels? Absolutely. Many individuals can improve their cholesterol profile through diet, exercise, and other lifestyle modifications. However, some may require medication in addition to lifestyle changes, especially if they have genetic predispositions to high cholesterol.

The Impact of High Cholesterol on Heart Health

High cholesterol, particularly elevated LDL levels, can have serious consequences for cardiovascular health. Understanding these risks is crucial for motivating lifestyle changes and adherence to treatment plans.

Atherosclerosis and Heart Disease

High levels of LDL cholesterol can lead to the buildup of plaque in the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This narrowing of the arteries can restrict blood flow to the heart, increasing the risk of heart disease and heart attacks.

Stroke Risk

When plaque builds up in the arteries leading to the brain, it can increase the risk of ischemic stroke. This occurs when a blood clot blocks blood flow to part of the brain.

Peripheral Artery Disease

High cholesterol can also affect arteries in other parts of the body, leading to peripheral artery disease. This condition can cause pain and mobility issues, particularly in the legs.

How quickly can high cholesterol lead to heart problems? The effects of high cholesterol are cumulative and can take years to manifest. However, the longer high cholesterol goes unchecked, the greater the risk of developing heart disease or experiencing a cardiovascular event.

Strategies for Improving Cholesterol Levels

Managing cholesterol levels is a key component of maintaining cardiovascular health. While some individuals may require medication, many can significantly improve their cholesterol profile through lifestyle changes.

Dietary Modifications

A heart-healthy diet can have a substantial impact on cholesterol levels. Consider the following dietary strategies:

• Increase fiber intake through whole grains, fruits, and vegetables
• Choose lean proteins and plant-based protein sources
• Incorporate omega-3 fatty acids from sources like fatty fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts
• Limit saturated and trans fats found in red meat, full-fat dairy, and processed foods
• Add foods naturally rich in plant sterols and stanols, such as nuts and seeds

Regular Physical Activity

Exercise can help improve cholesterol levels by increasing HDL cholesterol and reducing LDL cholesterol and triglycerides. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.

Weight Management

Maintaining a healthy weight can help improve cholesterol levels. Even modest weight loss can have a positive impact on cholesterol and overall cardiovascular health.

Smoking Cessation

Quitting smoking can help increase HDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. The benefits of quitting begin almost immediately and continue to improve over time.

Moderate Alcohol Consumption

While moderate alcohol consumption may have some benefits for HDL cholesterol, excessive drinking can lead to high triglycerides and other health issues. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation.

Medication

In some cases, lifestyle changes alone may not be sufficient to manage cholesterol levels. Your healthcare provider may recommend medication such as statins, bile acid sequestrants, or other cholesterol-lowering drugs.

How long does it take to see improvements in cholesterol levels? With consistent lifestyle changes, many people can see improvements in their cholesterol levels within 3-6 months. However, the timeline can vary depending on individual factors and the specific changes implemented.

The Importance of Regular Cholesterol Screening

Regular cholesterol screening is crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health and detecting potential issues early. The American Heart Association recommends that all adults aged 20 or older have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years.

When to Start Screening

Cholesterol screening should begin in early adulthood, as cholesterol levels can start to rise as early as age 20. For children, the first screening is recommended between ages 9 and 11, with follow-up screenings between ages 17 and 21.

Frequency of Screening

While every 4 to 6 years is the general recommendation for adults with normal cholesterol levels, more frequent testing may be necessary for individuals with:

• A family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
• Other risk factors such as smoking, obesity, or diabetes
• Previously diagnosed high cholesterol
• Certain medical conditions that can affect cholesterol levels

Types of Cholesterol Tests

The most common cholesterol test is a lipid panel, which measures:

• Total cholesterol
• LDL cholesterol
• HDL cholesterol
• Triglycerides

Some advanced tests may also measure particle size and number, which can provide additional information about cardiovascular risk.

Interpreting Test Results

Understanding your cholesterol test results is crucial for managing your cardiovascular health. Your healthcare provider will consider your overall health, family history, and other risk factors when interpreting your results and making recommendations.

How can you prepare for a cholesterol test? For most lipid panels, you’ll need to fast for 9-12 hours before the test. This means avoiding all food and drinks except water. Some newer tests don’t require fasting, but always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions.

Regular cholesterol screening is a proactive step in maintaining heart health. By staying informed about your cholesterol levels and working with your healthcare provider, you can take timely action to manage your cardiovascular risk and promote overall well-being.

By age, LDL, HDL, and More

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Recommended total cholesterol levels are under 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) for most adults and under 170 mg/dL for children. Women typically need more HDL (good cholesterol) than men.

Good heart health is like a building block: It’s cumulative. This is particularly true when it comes to high cholesterol.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance your liver makes. It’s also found in certain foods. Your body needs some cholesterol to function properly. But having too much of the bad type of cholesterol — low-density lipoprotein (LDL) — puts you at risk for having a heart attack or stroke.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), having high cholesterol raises your risk for heart disease.

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “men,” “women,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

Your total cholesterol level is the overall amount of cholesterol found in your blood. It consists of:

• low-density lipoproteins (LDLs)
• high-density lipoproteins (HDLs)
• triglycerides

LDL is also called “bad” cholesterol because it blocks your blood vessels and increases your risk for heart disease. HDL is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps protect you from heart disease. The higher your HDL, the better.

Total cholesterol also includes a triglyceride count. These are another type of fat that can build up in the body and are considered the “building blocks” of cholesterol.

High levels of triglycerides and low levels of HDL raise your risk for heart disease.

The American Heart Association recommends that all adults have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years, starting at age 20, which is when cholesterol levels can start to rise.

As we age, cholesterol levels tend to climb. Men are generally at a higher risk than women for higher cholesterol. However, a woman’s risk goes up after she enters menopause.

For those with high cholesterol and other cardiac risk factors, such as diabetes, more frequent testing is recommended.

Cholesterol chart for adults

According to the 2018 guidelines on the management of blood cholesterol published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), these are the acceptable, borderline, and high measurements for adults.

All values are in mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) and are based on fasting measurements.

Cholesterol levels in men vs.

women

Generally, guidelines are similar for men and women over the age of 20, though they differ when it comes to HDL cholesterol, as seen above. Women should aim for higher levels of HDL cholesterol.

Children who are physically active, eat a nutrient-dense diet, are not overweight, and do not have a family history of high cholesterol are at a lower risk for having high cholesterol.

Current guidelines recommend that all children have their cholesterol checked between ages 9 and 11 years, and then again between ages 17 and 21 years.

Children with more risk factors, such as having diabetes, obesity, or a family history of high cholesterol, should be checked between ages 2 and 8 years, and again between ages 12 and 16 years.

Cholesterol chart for children

According to the JACC, the following are the recommended cholesterol levels for children:

All values are in mg/dL:

Your doctor may recommend a plan of treatment for high cholesterol that includes lifestyle modifications and potentially medication. This will vary based on factors like other medications you may be taking, your age, sex, and general health.

Here are some medications more commonly prescribed for high cholesterol:

• Statins. Statins lower the LDL cholesterol levels by slowing the production of cholesterol by the liver.
• Bile acid sequestrants. Bile acid sequestrants are substances used in digestion. These resins can reduce cholesterol levels in the blood by binding to bile acids and removing them, forcing the body to break down LDL cholesterol to create bile acids instead.
• Cholesterol absorption inhibitors. Cholesterol absorption inhibitors can block the absorption of cholesterol from the diet, sometimes in conjunction with statins.
• Bempedoic acid. Bempedoic acid helps to stop an enzyme in the liver, ATP citrate lyase, from making cholesterol. This drug is often combined with statins for increased benefit for those with familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited condition that can cause early heart disease.
• PCSK9 inhibitors. Also used frequently with familial hypercholesterolemia, PCSK9 inhibitors, which are injected drugs, help the liver absorb and remove more LDL cholesterol from the blood.

Medications can also be used to treat contributing factors to cholesterol like triglycerides. These may be used in addition to some of the medications above.

“One misconception is that people can have poorly controlled cholesterol for years and then decide to take action. By then the plaque could already have built up,” says Dr. Eugenia Gianos, director of cardiovascular prevention for Northwell Health in New York.

The good news is that lifestyle changes are reasonably effective in helping you reduce cholesterol levels. They’re also fairly straightforward and can be done at any age and within most abilities.

• Exercise if you can. Physical activity can help you lose weight and boost your HDL cholesterol. Aim for 30 to 60 minutes a day of moderate cardiovascular exercise, such as biking, jogging, swimming, and dancing, at least 5 times a week.
• Eat more fiber. Try to add more fiber to your diet, such as replacing white bread and pasta with whole grains.
• Eat healthy fats: Healthy fats include olive oil, avocado, and certain nuts. These are all fats that won’t raise your LDL levels.
• Limit your saturated-fat intake. Reduce the amount of high-saturated fatty foods like cheese, whole milk, and high-fat red meats.
• Limit red and processed meats, sodium and sugar-sweetened foods. A heart healthy diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, poultry, fish and nuts, while limiting processed meats, excess sodium, and added sugar.
• If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking decreases HDL cholesterol. Quitting can help you better manage your cholesterol levels.
• Limit your alcohol intake. The American Heart Association recommends drinking alcohol in moderation, which means, on average, no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one drink per day for women. Drinking too much alcohol can raise levels of triglyceride fats in the bloodstream and lead to conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and atrial fibrillation.
• Get to a healthy-for-you weight. Losing excess body weight can help lower your cholesterol levels.
• Check your levels. You can see a doctor or use an at-home test kit to check your cholesterol levels. You can purchase a testing kit online from LetsGetChecked here.

There are few noticeable symptoms of high cholesterol. Emergency symptoms such as a stroke or heart attack may be the only indicator of damage from high cholesterol. This means that regular monitoring by a doctor is essential.

Most people should get their cholesterol checked with a blood test every 4 to 6 years. Your doctor may recommend more frequent screening if you live with any of the following:

• a history of heart conditions
• family history of high cholesterol
• high blood pressure
• if you smoke
• have overweight or obesity

Read this article in Spanish.

By age, LDL, HDL, and More

We include products we think are useful for our readers. If you buy through links on this page, we may earn a small commission Here’s our process.

Healthline only shows you brands and products that we stand behind.

Our team thoroughly researches and evaluates the recommendations we make on our site. To establish that the product manufacturers addressed safety and efficacy standards, we:

• Evaluate ingredients and composition: Do they have the potential to cause harm?
• Fact-check all health claims: Do they align with the current body of scientific evidence?
• Assess the brand: Does it operate with integrity and adhere to industry best practices?

We do the research so you can find trusted products for your health and wellness.

Read more about our vetting process.

Was this helpful?

Recommended total cholesterol levels are under 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) for most adults and under 170 mg/dL for children. Women typically need more HDL (good cholesterol) than men.

Good heart health is like a building block: It’s cumulative. This is particularly true when it comes to high cholesterol.

Cholesterol is a fatty substance your liver makes. It’s also found in certain foods. Your body needs some cholesterol to function properly. But having too much of the bad type of cholesterol — low-density lipoprotein (LDL) — puts you at risk for having a heart attack or stroke.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), having high cholesterol raises your risk for heart disease.

Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “men,” “women,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Click here to learn more.

Your total cholesterol level is the overall amount of cholesterol found in your blood. It consists of:

• low-density lipoproteins (LDLs)
• high-density lipoproteins (HDLs)
• triglycerides

LDL is also called “bad” cholesterol because it blocks your blood vessels and increases your risk for heart disease. HDL is considered “good” cholesterol because it helps protect you from heart disease. The higher your HDL, the better.

Total cholesterol also includes a triglyceride count. These are another type of fat that can build up in the body and are considered the “building blocks” of cholesterol.

High levels of triglycerides and low levels of HDL raise your risk for heart disease.

The American Heart Association recommends that all adults have their cholesterol checked every 4 to 6 years, starting at age 20, which is when cholesterol levels can start to rise.

As we age, cholesterol levels tend to climb. Men are generally at a higher risk than women for higher cholesterol. However, a woman’s risk goes up after she enters menopause.

For those with high cholesterol and other cardiac risk factors, such as diabetes, more frequent testing is recommended.

Cholesterol chart for adults

According to the 2018 guidelines on the management of blood cholesterol published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology (JACC), these are the acceptable, borderline, and high measurements for adults.

All values are in mg/dL (milligrams per deciliter) and are based on fasting measurements.

Cholesterol levels in men vs.

women

Generally, guidelines are similar for men and women over the age of 20, though they differ when it comes to HDL cholesterol, as seen above. Women should aim for higher levels of HDL cholesterol.

Children who are physically active, eat a nutrient-dense diet, are not overweight, and do not have a family history of high cholesterol are at a lower risk for having high cholesterol.

Current guidelines recommend that all children have their cholesterol checked between ages 9 and 11 years, and then again between ages 17 and 21 years.

Children with more risk factors, such as having diabetes, obesity, or a family history of high cholesterol, should be checked between ages 2 and 8 years, and again between ages 12 and 16 years.

Cholesterol chart for children

According to the JACC, the following are the recommended cholesterol levels for children:

All values are in mg/dL:

Your doctor may recommend a plan of treatment for high cholesterol that includes lifestyle modifications and potentially medication. This will vary based on factors like other medications you may be taking, your age, sex, and general health.

Here are some medications more commonly prescribed for high cholesterol:

• Statins. Statins lower the LDL cholesterol levels by slowing the production of cholesterol by the liver.
• Bile acid sequestrants. Bile acid sequestrants are substances used in digestion. These resins can reduce cholesterol levels in the blood by binding to bile acids and removing them, forcing the body to break down LDL cholesterol to create bile acids instead.
• Cholesterol absorption inhibitors. Cholesterol absorption inhibitors can block the absorption of cholesterol from the diet, sometimes in conjunction with statins.
• Bempedoic acid. Bempedoic acid helps to stop an enzyme in the liver, ATP citrate lyase, from making cholesterol. This drug is often combined with statins for increased benefit for those with familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited condition that can cause early heart disease.
• PCSK9 inhibitors. Also used frequently with familial hypercholesterolemia, PCSK9 inhibitors, which are injected drugs, help the liver absorb and remove more LDL cholesterol from the blood.

Medications can also be used to treat contributing factors to cholesterol like triglycerides. These may be used in addition to some of the medications above.

“One misconception is that people can have poorly controlled cholesterol for years and then decide to take action. By then the plaque could already have built up,” says Dr. Eugenia Gianos, director of cardiovascular prevention for Northwell Health in New York.

The good news is that lifestyle changes are reasonably effective in helping you reduce cholesterol levels. They’re also fairly straightforward and can be done at any age and within most abilities.

• Exercise if you can. Physical activity can help you lose weight and boost your HDL cholesterol. Aim for 30 to 60 minutes a day of moderate cardiovascular exercise, such as biking, jogging, swimming, and dancing, at least 5 times a week.
• Eat more fiber. Try to add more fiber to your diet, such as replacing white bread and pasta with whole grains.
• Eat healthy fats: Healthy fats include olive oil, avocado, and certain nuts. These are all fats that won’t raise your LDL levels.
• Limit your saturated-fat intake. Reduce the amount of high-saturated fatty foods like cheese, whole milk, and high-fat red meats.
• Limit red and processed meats, sodium and sugar-sweetened foods. A heart healthy diet focuses on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, poultry, fish and nuts, while limiting processed meats, excess sodium, and added sugar.
• If you smoke, consider quitting. Smoking decreases HDL cholesterol. Quitting can help you better manage your cholesterol levels.
• Limit your alcohol intake. The American Heart Association recommends drinking alcohol in moderation, which means, on average, no more than two drinks per day for men and no more than one drink per day for women. Drinking too much alcohol can raise levels of triglyceride fats in the bloodstream and lead to conditions such as hypertension (high blood pressure) and atrial fibrillation.
• Get to a healthy-for-you weight. Losing excess body weight can help lower your cholesterol levels.
• Check your levels. You can see a doctor or use an at-home test kit to check your cholesterol levels. You can purchase a testing kit online from LetsGetChecked here.

There are few noticeable symptoms of high cholesterol. Emergency symptoms such as a stroke or heart attack may be the only indicator of damage from high cholesterol. This means that regular monitoring by a doctor is essential.

Most people should get their cholesterol checked with a blood test every 4 to 6 years. Your doctor may recommend more frequent screening if you live with any of the following:

• a history of heart conditions
• family history of high cholesterol
• high blood pressure
• if you smoke
• have overweight or obesity

Read this article in Spanish.

Calculation of the coefficient of atherogenicity – Clinic 1

Coefficient of atherogenicity – an indicator that reflects the degree of risk of developing diseases of the heart and blood vessels.

Atherogenic coefficient – the ratio of “bad” cholesterol to “good”, characterizing the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.

Cholesterol (CH) is a fat-like substance vital for the body. It is involved in the formation of cell membranes of all organs and tissues of the body. Based on cholesterol, hormones are created, without which growth, development of the body and the implementation of the reproduction function are impossible. Bile acids are formed from it, due to which fats are absorbed in the intestines.

Cholesterol is insoluble in water, therefore, in order to move around the body, it is “packed” into a shell consisting of special proteins – apoproteins. The resulting complex (“cholesterol + apoprotein”) is called lipoprotein. Several types of lipoproteins circulate in the blood, differing in the proportions of their components:

• very low density lipoproteins (VLDL),
• low density lipoproteins (LDL),
• high density lipoproteins (HDL).

LDL and VLDL are considered “bad” types of cholesterol, as they contribute to the formation of plaque in the arteries, which can lead to a heart attack or stroke. HDL, on the other hand, is called “good” cholesterol because it removes excess amounts of low-density cholesterol from vessel walls.

In the development of atherosclerotic plaques in the vessels, not only the increase in the total amount of cholesterol in the blood, but also the ratio between “bad” and “good” cholesterol is important. This is what the coefficient of atherogenicity reflects. It is calculated using the following formula: CA = (total cholesterol – HDL) / HDL.

Thus, in order to determine CA, it is necessary to know the level of total cholesterol and HDL.

The atherogenic coefficient equal to 2-3 is considered optimal.

The atherogenic index is a guide value. For a more accurate assessment of the risk of developing atherosclerosis and diseases of the heart and blood vessels, it is better to use the exact values ​​​​of total cholesterol, LDL and HDL.

What is research used for?

The atherogenic index test is used to assess the risk of atherosclerosis and heart and vascular problems.

Changes in the levels of “bad” and “good” cholesterol and their ratio in itself, as a rule, do not manifest any symptoms, so their timely determination is very important in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases.

When is the test ordered?

Atherogenic coefficient is usually part of the lipid profile, as are total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, VLDL and triglycerides. A lipid profile may be part of a routine screening routine or more frequently if the person is on a low-fat diet and/or is taking lipid-lowering medications. In these cases, it is checked whether the patient reaches the target level of cholesterol values ​​and, accordingly, whether his risk of cardiovascular diseases is reduced.

In addition, a lipid profile is prescribed more often if there are risk factors for the development of cardiovascular diseases in the patient’s life:

• smoking,
• in men over 45 years of age, in women over 55,
• high blood pressure (140/90 mmHg and above),
• high cholesterol or cardiovascular disease in family members (heart attack or stroke in a male relative under 55 years of age or a woman under 65 years of age),
• ischemic heart disease, myocardial infarction or stroke,
• diabetes,
• overweight,
• alcohol abuse,
• ingestion of large amounts of food containing animal fats,
• low physical activity.

If a child is diagnosed with high cholesterol or heart disease, it is recommended that the first lipid profile or total cholesterol test be done between the ages of 2 and 10 years.

Calculation of the coefficient of atherogenicity

Analysis of the atherogenic index in the medical center “Health”

Biomaterial: Blood serum

Deadline (in the laboratory): 1 w.d.

* The site indicates the maximum possible time for the study. It reflects the time of the study in the laboratory and does not include the time for the delivery of the biomaterial to the laboratory. The information provided is for reference only and is not a public offer. For up-to-date information, contact the Contractor’s medical center or call-center.

Lipids (fats). Substances necessary for a living organism. The main lipid that a person receives from food, and from which their own lipids are then formed, is cholesterol. It is part of cell membranes, maintains their strength. Steroid hormones are synthesized from it: hormones of the adrenal cortex that regulate water-salt and carbohydrate metabolism, sex hormones, bile acids are formed, which are involved in the absorption of fats in the intestine. In the skin under the action of sunlight, vitamin D is synthesized from cholesterol, which is necessary for the absorption of calcium.

Various complexes of lipids with proteins circulating in the blood are formed in the liver from cholesterol: high, low and very low density lipoproteins (HDL, LDL, VLDL), between which total cholesterol is divided. Low and very low density lipoproteins are deposited in plaques and contribute to the progression of atherosclerosis. High-density lipoproteins contribute to the “pulling” of cholesterol from plaques and play a protective role, stop the development of atherosclerosis. Therefore, to assess the risk of atherosclerosis and control, not only the total level of cholesterol, but also the ratio of its fractions is important. Based on these data is calculated.

Atherogenic index. Total blood cholesterol is an important, but still insufficient indicator for judging the violation of cholesterol metabolism, assessing the risk of early development of atherosclerosis, and judging the success of treatment. As part of total cholesterol, several fractions are distinguished, of which two are necessary for establishing the correct diagnosis and prognosis. For a reliable diagnosis of disorders of cholesterol metabolism, it is sufficient to determine total cholesterol (TC) and HDL (high density lipoproteins). Based on these data, the Atherogenic Index is calculated – the main indicator by which one can reliably judge the degree of lipid metabolism disorders and the likelihood of developing atherosclerosis. The value of the atherogenic index can be used to monitor the effectiveness of therapy and diet.

Indications for prescription

To diagnose pathologies of the cardiovascular system, in particular atherosclerosis, doctors prescribe a comprehensive examination. One of its components is the lipid profile. With this study, it seems possible to evaluate lipid metabolism in the human body. The study contains many indicators, one of them is the coefficient of atherogenicity (CA). If this indicator is increased in a person’s blood, a more detailed examination should be performed. Every person who has problems with fat metabolism should know what the atherogenic index is, as well as how to determine and decipher this figure. Indications for the appointment: diagnosis of atherosclerosis and monitoring the effectiveness of the treatment; control of lipid metabolism in overweight people; annual preventive examination in people over 40 years of age.

Interpretation of results/Information for specialists

The norm for a healthy person should not exceed 3-3.5. Values ​​above 3.5-4 indicate an excess of “bad” cholesterol and the risk of developing atherosclerosis. The atherogenic index below the norm (less than 3) has no clinical significance. Along with IA, you need to know other indicators. When calculating the coefficient of atherogenicity, deviations can directly vary both upward and downward. When the atherogenic index does not exceed normal values ​​or its level is below normal, the probability of occurrence of cardiovascular pathology tends to zero. At the level of atherogenic number exceeding 4, the probability of occurrence of ischemic changes in vital organs, thrombosis significantly increases. An atherogenic index of more than 5 indicates the presence of atherosclerotic changes in the vascular bed. In the case when an increase in the coefficient of atherogenicity is detected during the examination, measures must be taken immediately. The primary role for the normalization of the indicator is played by an anti-atherogenic diet. Allocate the main reasons that contribute to the increase in the coefficient: Poor nutrition. Diabetes mellitus with excess body weight or obesity. Bad addictions. Diseases of the liver and thyroid gland.