What is defined as non-HDL cholesterol?

Non-HDL cholesterol is defined as total cholesterol minus high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. This measurement is important because it represents all cholesterol contained in lipoproteins that are considered atherogenic, meaning they can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease.

The focus on subtracting HDL from total cholesterol is based on the understanding that HDL is often referred to as "good" cholesterol. It plays a protective role in heart health by helping to remove cholesterol from the bloodstream and reducing the risk of plaque formation in arteries. By calculating non-HDL cholesterol, healthcare professionals can assess the total burden of atherogenic lipoproteins, including low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL), which are associated with increased cardiovascular risk.

This distinction is significant in clinical practice since non-HDL cholesterol levels can provide a clearer picture of cardiovascular risk and are particularly useful in patients with high triglycerides, where LDL measurements may be less reliable.