What is the Friedewald equation?

Friedewald (1972) estimates LDL as TC − HDL − TG/5. It is reliable when triglycerides are below 400 mg/dL; above that, direct LDL measurement is recommended.

Why is non-HDL cholesterol important?

Non-HDL cholesterol (TC − HDL) captures every atherogenic lipoprotein (LDL, VLDL, IDL, Lp(a)). The 2018 AHA/ACC guideline highlights it as a key secondary target.

What is a good total cholesterol level?

Generally, total cholesterol below 200 mg/dL is considered desirable, but treatment decisions are driven primarily by LDL, non-HDL, and overall cardiovascular risk.

Should I use direct LDL or Friedewald?

Direct LDL is preferred when triglycerides exceed 400 mg/dL or in non-fasting samples. Otherwise Friedewald is accurate enough for routine assessment.

Cholesterol Calculator

Free cholesterol calculator using the Friedewald equation and NCEP ATP III thresholds. Enter total cholesterol, HDL, triglycerides (and optionally LDL) to get ratios, non-HDL cholesterol and an LDL risk category.

Evaluate cardiovascular risk from your lipid panel (TC, HDL, LDL, TG).