How Do You Calculate Total Cholesterol

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Total Cholesterol Calculator

Calculate your total cholesterol levels using the Friedewald formula

How is Total Cholesterol Calculated?

Your total blood cholesterol is not just a single measurement; it is the sum of several distinct components. Medical professionals typically use the Friedewald equation to estimate total cholesterol when a direct measurement isn't performed.

The standard formula is:

Total Cholesterol = LDL + HDL + (Triglycerides / 5)

Understanding the Components

  • LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein): Often called "bad" cholesterol. High levels can lead to plaque buildup in your arteries.
  • HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein): Known as "good" cholesterol. It helps carry cholesterol away from your arteries and back to the liver.
  • Triglycerides: A type of fat (lipid) found in your blood. The "Triglycerides / 5" part of the equation estimates your VLDL (Very-Low-Density Lipoprotein) levels.

Standard Cholesterol Ranges (Adults)

Total Cholesterol Level Category
Less than 200 mg/dL Desirable / Healthy
200 – 239 mg/dL Borderline High
240 mg/dL and above High

Example Calculation

If your lab results show LDL: 110 mg/dL, HDL: 50 mg/dL, and Triglycerides: 150 mg/dL:

  1. Divide Triglycerides by 5: 150 / 5 = 30 (Estimated VLDL)
  2. Add LDL and HDL: 110 + 50 = 160
  3. Add the results: 160 + 30 = 190 mg/dL (Total Cholesterol)

Note: This calculator provides an estimation. Always consult with a healthcare professional to interpret your blood work, as individual risk factors vary.

function calculateTotalCholesterol() { var ldl = parseFloat(document.getElementById('ldlValue').value); var hdl = parseFloat(document.getElementById('hdlValue').value); var tri = parseFloat(document.getElementById('triglyceridesValue').value); var resultArea = document.getElementById('resultArea'); var totalResult = document.getElementById('totalResult'); var statusResult = document.getElementById('statusResult'); var vldlResult = document.getElementById('vldlResult'); if (isNaN(ldl) || isNaN(hdl) || isNaN(tri) || ldl < 0 || hdl < 0 || tri < 0) { alert("Please enter valid positive numbers for all fields."); return; } // Friedewald Formula: Total = LDL + HDL + (Triglycerides / 5) var vldl = tri / 5; var total = ldl + hdl + vldl; resultArea.style.display = 'block'; totalResult.innerHTML = "Total Cholesterol: " + total.toFixed(1) + " mg/dL"; vldlResult.innerHTML = "Estimated VLDL contribution: " + vldl.toFixed(1) + " mg/dL"; if (total = 200 && total < 240) { statusResult.innerHTML = "Category: Borderline High"; statusResult.style.color = "#d68910"; resultArea.style.backgroundColor = "#fef9e7"; resultArea.style.border = "1px solid #f39c12"; } else { statusResult.innerHTML = "Category: High Risk"; statusResult.style.color = "#c0392b"; resultArea.style.backgroundColor = "#fdedec"; resultArea.style.border = "1px solid #c0392b"; } }

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