TC/HDL Ratio · Singapore HPB Targets
Cholesterol Ratio Calculator
Check your TC/HDL (total cholesterol to HDL) ratio — a stronger predictor of cardiovascular risk than total cholesterol alone. Singapore HPB targets: below 4.5 for men, below 4.0 for women.
HPB targets differ: <4.5 (men), <4.0 (women)
Medical disclaimer
Cholesterol ratios are for informational purposes only. Cardiovascular risk depends on many factors. Consult a doctor before making any changes to diet, medication, or lifestyle.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalised advice.
TC/HDL Risk Reference Table
The TC/HDL ratio is calculated by dividing your total cholesterol by your HDL (good) cholesterol. Lower is better — a higher ratio indicates greater cardiovascular risk. Singapore HPB thresholds apply to fasting lipid panel results (mmol/L).
| TC/HDL Ratio | Risk Level | HPB Assessment | Recommended Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| < 3.5 | Optimal | Well below target | Maintain current lifestyle |
| 3.5 – 4.0 | Desirable | Within HPB target (women) | Monitor annually, healthy lifestyle |
| 4.0 – 4.5 | Borderline | Within HPB target (men only) | Improve diet, increase exercise |
| 4.5 – 5.5 | Elevated | Above HPB target | GP consult recommended |
| > 5.5 | High Risk | Significantly elevated | Prompt GP review required |
Singapore HPB Lipid Panel Targets
| Measure | Desirable | Borderline High | High / Action Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Cholesterol | < 5.2 mmol/L | 5.2 – 6.1 mmol/L | ≥ 6.2 mmol/L |
| LDL Cholesterol | < 3.0 mmol/L | 3.0 – 3.9 mmol/L | ≥ 4.0 mmol/L |
| HDL Cholesterol | ≥ 1.0 mmol/L (men) / ≥ 1.2 mmol/L (women) | — | < 1.0 mmol/L (low — risk) |
| Triglycerides | < 1.7 mmol/L | 1.7 – 2.2 mmol/L | ≥ 2.3 mmol/L |
| TC/HDL Ratio (men) | < 4.5 | 4.5 – 5.5 | > 5.5 |
| TC/HDL Ratio (women) | < 4.0 | 4.0 – 5.0 | > 5.0 |
Source: Singapore Health Promotion Board and MOH Clinical Practice Guidelines for Lipids. These are general population targets; individuals with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or other risk factors may have lower LDL targets. Consult your doctor.
Cholesterol in Singapore
17.4%
High Cholesterol
Of Singaporeans have total cholesterol above 6.2 mmol/L (elevated threshold)
40%
Borderline High
Have borderline elevated cholesterol, placing them at increased long-term risk
#3
Chronic Condition
Hyperlipidaemia is the third most common chronic condition in Singapore, after hypertension and diabetes
Singapore diet and cholesterol: Common local foods high in saturated fat — coconut milk (in laksa, rendang, nasi lemak), palm oil used in cooking, organ meats, and full-fat dairy — can elevate LDL cholesterol over time. The HPB encourages Singaporeans to choose leaner cooking methods (steaming, grilling) and substitute coconut milk with reduced-fat alternatives where possible.
Screening recommendations: Singapore MOH recommends a fasting lipid panel every 3 years for adults aged 40 and above with no known risk factors. Those with diabetes, hypertension, or a family history of heart disease should screen earlier and more frequently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a healthy cholesterol ratio in Singapore?
Singapore HPB recommends a TC/HDL ratio below 4.5 for men and below 4.0 for women. A ratio below 3.5 is considered optimal. The higher your HDL (good cholesterol) relative to total cholesterol, the lower your cardiovascular risk.
What is the difference between LDL and HDL cholesterol?
LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is 'bad' cholesterol — it deposits in artery walls and increases cardiovascular risk. HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is 'good' cholesterol — it transports cholesterol to the liver for removal. Singapore HPB recommends LDL below 3.0 mmol/L for healthy adults, and below 1.8 mmol/L for those with cardiovascular disease.
How common is high cholesterol in Singapore?
Approximately 17.4% of Singaporeans have elevated total cholesterol (above 6.2 mmol/L), and about 40% have borderline high cholesterol. Hyperlipidaemia is the third most common chronic condition in Singapore, after hypertension and diabetes.
How can I lower my TC/HDL ratio?
To lower your TC/HDL ratio: (1) Increase HDL by exercising regularly — 150 min/week of moderate aerobic activity raises HDL by 5–10%. (2) Reduce saturated fat intake by cutting coconut milk, palm oil, and fatty meats common in Singapore cuisine. (3) Replace refined carbs with high-fibre options. Consult your GP before taking cholesterol-lowering supplements.