My cholesterol panel is as follows; Total cholesterol=124, Tri's=52, LDL=37, HDL=77,Ratio=1.6 I take Vytorin 10-20mg. I am 73, with Diabetes, treated an insulin pump, last A1c =6.5 (highest number in 10 years). I also (at 73) take Flomax 0.4 and Finasteride 5mg. My doctor (a GP) say's I'm doing great! My wife disagrees that my Cholesterol Ratio ideally should be 3.2. Question: Who is right? Thank you. James
Optional Information: Gender: Male Age: 73 Already Tried: See question block
Hello James,The cholesterol ratio is the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL (your good cholesterol). The lower your ratio, the better.You are doing very well, your doctor is right.Your wife may have read that the ideal ratio is 3.2 or less, not 3.2.The absolute numbers more than the ratio itself in managing cholesterol and in determining response to treatment. The ratio is used to as part of an overall picture in determining your risk for heart disease. The lower the ratio, the lower your risk.Feel free to ask any follow up questions you may have, Dr AbbyIf you are satisfied with my help, please remember to click accept. Thank you!!
Experience: Family Physician practicing medicine for over 10 years, United States