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Cholesterol Total Unit Converter
Total Cholesterol represents the sum of all cholesterol carried in lipoprotein particles in the blood, including High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), and Very Low-Density Lipoprotein (VLDL). Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance essential for cell membrane structure, hormone synthesis (cortisol, aldosterone, sex hormones), and bile acid production.[Image of lipoprotein metabolism and reverse cholesterol transport]
While necessary for life, elevated total cholesterol (hypercholesterolemia) is a major modifiable risk factor for Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD). It promotes plaque formation in arteries, leading to heart attacks and strokes. Treatment strategies (diet, statins) aim to lower total cholesterol, specifically by reducing the atherogenic LDL fraction. This converter allows accurate switching between the US standard (mg/dL) and the international SI unit (mmol/L).
SI Units
RecommendedMillimoles per liter (Standard International).
Conventional Units
Clinical Context
Target Levels: For most adults, desirable total cholesterol is < 200 mg/dL (5.2 mmol/L).
Levels between 200–239 mg/dL are considered borderline high, and ≥ 240 mg/dL (6.2 mmol/L) is considered high. However, risk assessment now focuses more on the specific lipid fractions (LDL, HDL, Non-HDL) and overall cardiovascular risk scores rather than total cholesterol alone. The conversion factor relies on the molecular weight of cholesterol esters: 1 mmol/L ≈ 38.67 mg/dL.
Clinical References
How to Use This Calculator
Follow these steps to get accurate clinical conversions instantly.
Enter Values
Input your laboratory results into the corresponding unit field (e.g., mg/dL). You can use either dot or comma decimals.
Automatic Conversion
The calculator works in real-time. As you type in one field, all other units (like mmol/L) are instantly updated.
Verify Units
Check the SI Units section. mmol/L is the standard unit in Canada and Europe.
Reset
Use the Clear button to reset all fields before starting a new calculation.
Frequently Asked Questions & Tips
Total cholesterol is not significantly affected by fasting, unlike triglycerides. However, a standard lipid panel usually requires fasting.
Yes, mg/dL and mg% are equivalent. However, g/L is the preferred SI unit for proteins, while mmol/L is for small molecules like cholesterol.