Blood Cholesterol (HDL, LDL, & Triglycerides)

http://www.exrx.net/Testing/LDL%26HDL.html

The total cholesterol/HDL ratio is more indicative of cardiovascular disease than TC (total cholesterol). The amount of HDL and LDL in the blood are added together, this number for all practical purposes, indicates the amount of total cholesterol. Therefore, if your HDL count is low, the LDL count will account for the remainder of the total. For men an acceptable ratio of TC/HDL is 4.5 or below, and women is 4.0 or below.

Ratio of total Cholesterol to HDL Risk Men Women Very low (1/2 average) <3.4 <3.3 Low risk 4.0 3.8 Average risk 5.0 4.5 Moderate risk (2x average) 9.5 7.0 High risk (3x risk) >23 >11	Triglycerides (mg/dl) < 130   Desirable < 150   Normal 150-199   Borderline 200-499   High >= 500   Very High
Ratio of LDL to HDL Risk Men Women Very low (1/2 average) 1 1.5 Average risk 3.6 3.2 Moderate risk (2x average) 6.3 5.0 High risk (3x risk) 8 6.1

HDL levels have an inverse relationship with coronary heart disease. The ability of HDL to predict the development of coronary atherosclerosis has been estimated to be four times greater than LDL and eight times greater than TC. Treatment is recommended for those with an HDL level below 40 mg/dL. An HDL of 60 mg/dL is considered protection against heart disease.