Total cholesterol divided by HDL cholesterol, a simple lipid risk ratio.
What it is
The TC/HDL ratio summarises two routine lipid results. UK pathways still emphasise absolute LDL/non-HDL and overall risk.
Why it matters
Lower ratios are generally favourable, but absolute lipid values and clinical risk matter more than the ratio alone.
This guide is educational only and cannot diagnose you. Discuss results, especially anything outside your laboratory’s reference interval, or that does not match how you feel, with a GP or other appropriately qualified clinician.
How it affects the body
The ratio reflects balance between circulating cholesterol and HDL cholesterol.
For athletes
Useful as a quick glance; Apo B or non-HDL may be more informative for some athletes with mixed lipids.
