Understanding your cholesterol numbers
Medically reviewed by Pharmacist Cherlyn
The short answer
A lipid panel reports LDL (“bad”), HDL (“good”), triglycerides and total cholesterol in mmol/L. As a general guide, aim for LDL below 2.6, HDL above 1.0–1.3, triglycerides below 1.7 and total below 5.2 — but your personal targets depend on your overall heart-disease risk.
A lipid panel can look like a wall of numbers. Here's what each one means and what's generally considered healthy. You can also estimate your own ratios and heart risk with our free cholesterol calculator.
The four core numbers (mmol/L)
| Marker | What it is | General target |
|---|---|---|
| LDL ("bad") | Carries cholesterol into artery walls | Below 2.6 (lower if high-risk) |
| HDL ("good") | Helps clear cholesterol away | Above 1.0 (men) / 1.3 (women) |
| Triglycerides | A blood fat linked to diet & metabolism | Below 1.7 |
| Total cholesterol | LDL + HDL + a portion of triglycerides | Below 5.2 |
Ratios and non-HDL
Beyond the raw values, two derived numbers are useful: non-HDL cholesterol (total minus HDL — everything "atherogenic") and the TC/HDL ratio. They often predict cardiovascular risk better than LDL alone. The calculator works these out for you and estimates a 10-year heart-risk band.
Why your targets are personal
"Healthy" depends on your overall cardiovascular risk — age, blood pressure, smoking, diabetes, and family history. Someone at high risk needs a much lower LDL than someone at low risk. That's why the same number can be fine for one person and a concern for another.
How cholesterol is measured
A full lipid profile is a simple blood test. Point-of-care analysers such as the SD LipidoCare can produce a multi-parameter lipid panel in minutes in a clinic or community-screening setting, making regular checks more accessible.
This article is general health information, not medical advice. Target ranges are guides based on widely used standards (WHO, ADA, and Malaysian Clinical Practice Guidelines) and are individualised by your doctor. Always discuss your own results with a healthcare professional.
Frequently asked questions
What is a healthy LDL cholesterol level?
Generally, an LDL below 2.6 mmol/L is considered optimal, but if you are at higher cardiovascular risk your doctor may target below 1.8 mmol/L or lower. Targets are individualised.
What is a good total cholesterol level?
A total cholesterol below 5.2 mmol/L is generally desirable, but the breakdown (LDL, HDL, triglycerides) and your overall risk matter more than the single total.
What does the TC/HDL ratio mean?
It's your total cholesterol divided by HDL — a quick marker of risk. Lower is better; broadly, below about 4.5 is often considered favourable, but interpret it alongside your other numbers and risk factors.