A calculated cholesterol ratio that shows the balance between “bad” and “good” cholesterol.
The atherogenic coefficient is a calculated value, not a separate blood test. It is non-HDL cholesterol divided by HDL cholesterol, where non-HDL is total cholesterol minus HDL. It summarises how much of your cholesterol is in the potentially harmful fraction relative to the protective HDL.
A higher atherogenic coefficient means a larger share of cholesterol that can build up in artery walls compared with the cholesterol that helps clear it. Higher values are linked with greater cardiovascular risk. It is a summary marker and is read alongside the full lipid panel and your overall risk profile.
Aniva reads your result against research-backed ranges, not just the lab's wide normal. The reference shown below is specific to this biomarker.
These are interpretive guides, not strict lab ranges. Cut-offs are not firmly standardised and vary by source.
| Atherogenic coefficient | Interpretation |
|---|---|
| Below ~3 | Generally considered favourable |
| Above ~3 | Higher, suggests greater atherogenic burden |
Anything that changes cholesterol or HDL affects the coefficient: recent meals (for triglyceride-rich states), illness, pregnancy, alcohol, and lipid-lowering medicines. It does not capture LDL particle number, so it complements rather than replaces ApoB.
Best read with its components, total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol, plus LDL, triglycerides, and ApoB.
What does my result mean? A higher value suggests more “bad” cholesterol compared with HDL. A lower value suggests a more favorable balance. Use it with your full lipid panel.
Do I need to fast? Fasting is not required for most people. Your clinician may ask for fasting if triglycerides are very high or results are unclear.
What can affect the result? Recent meals, alcohol, intense exercise, illness, pregnancy, and medicines like statins or steroids can change cholesterol values.
How often should I test this? Check it when you repeat your lipid panel, often every 6 to 12 months, or as your clinician advises.
How long do results take? Results are usually ready in about 7 days.
What should I discuss with my clinician? Review this ratio alongside LDL-C, non-HDL-C, triglycerides, ApoB, and your overall heart risk to plan next steps.
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