Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol, plays a crucial role in cardiovascular health. While your body needs cholesterol for essential functions, high levels of LDL can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This buildup can narrow arteries, restricting blood flow and increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Calculating Your LDL Cholesterol
A common method for estimating LDL cholesterol levels is the Friedewald equation. This formula uses your total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglyceride levels to provide an estimated LDL value. It's important to note that this is an estimation and may not be perfectly accurate, especially if your triglyceride levels are very high (above 400 mg/dL).
This calculator uses the Friedewald equation to estimate your LDL cholesterol. Simply input your latest blood test results for Total Cholesterol, HDL Cholesterol, and Triglycerides.
Interpreting Your Results:
The ideal LDL cholesterol levels can vary based on individual risk factors for cardiovascular disease. However, general guidelines are as follows:
Optimal: Less than 100 mg/dL
Near Optimal/Above Optimal: 100-129 mg/dL
Borderline High: 130-159 mg/dL
High: 160-189 mg/dL
Very High: 190 mg/dL and above
It's essential to discuss your cholesterol levels and their implications with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice based on your overall health profile, family history, and other risk factors.
function calculateLdl() {
var totalCholesterol = parseFloat(document.getElementById("totalCholesterol").value);
var hdlCholesterol = parseFloat(document.getElementById("hdlCholesterol").value);
var triglycerides = parseFloat(document.getElementById("triglycerides").value);
var resultDiv = document.getElementById("result");
var resultCategoryDiv = document.getElementById("result-category");
resultDiv.style.color = "#004a99"; // Reset color
if (isNaN(totalCholesterol) || isNaN(hdlCholesterol) || isNaN(triglycerides)) {
resultDiv.innerHTML = "Please enter valid numbers for all fields.";
resultCategoryDiv.innerHTML = "";
return;
}
if (triglycerides >= 400) {
resultDiv.innerHTML = "Triglycerides too high for accurate estimation.";
resultCategoryDiv.innerHTML = "";
return;
}
var ldlCholesterol = totalCholesterol – hdlCholesterol – (triglycerides / 5);
var formattedLdl = ldlCholesterol.toFixed(2);
resultDiv.innerHTML = formattedLdl + " mg/dL";
var category = "";
if (ldlCholesterol = 100 && ldlCholesterol = 130 && ldlCholesterol = 160 && ldlCholesterol < 190) {
category = "High";
resultDiv.style.color = "#dc3545"; // Danger Red
} else {
category = "Very High";
resultDiv.style.color = "#dc3545"; // Danger Red
}
resultCategoryDiv.innerHTML = "Category: " + category;
}