HDL range for men and women
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol reference ranges:
Men: 40 mg/dL or higher (optimal: 60+ mg/dL)
Women: 50 mg/dL or higher (optimal: 60+ mg/dL)
Values below 40 mg/dL (men) or 50 mg/dL (women) are considered low and a risk factor for heart disease. Values at or above 60 mg/dL are considered protective against cardiovascular disease.
| Category | Men | Women |
|---|---|---|
| Low (high risk) | < 40 mg/dL | < 50 mg/dL |
| Normal | 40-59 mg/dL | 50-59 mg/dL |
| Optimal (protective) | ≥ 60 mg/dL | ≥ 60 mg/dL |
Women naturally have higher HDL levels than men due to the effects of estrogen. The overall total cholesterol to HDL ratio is also a useful risk marker - ideally below 5:1, with an optimal ratio around 3.5:1.
This is a shared conversation. Sign in to Orris to start your own chat.