Cholesterol levels in UK
In the United Kingdom, cholesterol levels are typically measured in millimoles per litre (mmol/L), rather than milligrams per decilitre (mg/dL), which is the unit of measurement commonly used in the United States. The reference ranges for cholesterol levels in the UK are as follows:
The two main types of cholesterol are low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
Here are general guidelines for good and bad cholesterol levels:
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol:
- Good Level: Less than 2.59 mmol/L
- Borderline: 2.59–3.34 mmol/L
- High Level: 3.34–4.12 mmol/L
- Very High Level: 4.12 mmol/L and above
Lower LDL cholesterol levels are generally associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. LDL is often known as bad cholesterol.
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol:
- Good Level: 1.55 mmol/L and above
- Acceptable Level: 1.04–1.55 mmol/L
- Poor Level: Less than 1.04 mmol/L
Higher levels of HDL cholesterol are considered protective against heart disease and it is often known as good cholesterol.
Total Cholesterol:
- Desirable Level: Less than 5.00 mmol/L
- Borderline High: 5.00–6.18 mmol/L
- High Level: 6.18 mmol/L and above
Total cholesterol is the sum of LDL, HDL, and other fractions of cholesterol.
It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and individual health risk factors may influence the target levels. Additionally, the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol is sometimes considered. Lifestyle factors, such as diet, exercise, and genetics, also play a role in cholesterol levels and cardiovascular health.
Can you test for these different levels of good and bad cholesterol at home?
Yes, you can test for different levels of good and bad cholesterol at home using cholesterol testing kits and a cholesterol meter. These test kits are designed for self-testing and provide a convenient way to monitor your cholesterol levels without the need for a visit your doctor.
The EcoTest CML-101 Cholesterol digital meter provides a comprehensive self-testing solution for cholesterol and lipid monitoring in the convenience of your home. The 5 in 1 digital meter utilises Ecotest 3 in 1 test devices to measure real-time Total Cholesterol (TC), High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), and Triglycerides (TG) in each test sample. Furthermore, it calculates the ratio of Total Cholesterol (TC) to HDL and Low-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (LDL), providing five results for every blood sample. The test has been meticulously designed to deliver accurate results through the use of capillary finger prick peripheral blood samples.
With a generous 500-test memory, the device allows for efficient tracking of your cholesterol levels over time. Additionally, the switchable display scales between mmol/L and g/dL add to the versatility of the cholesterol meter. Its intuitive setup menu contributes to making this cholesterol meter one of the easiest to live with and use regularly, promoting user-friendly functionality. Moreover, the device is CE0197 certified for both European clinical and self-test use, ensuring adherence to quality and safety standards.