How do you convert cholesterol from mmol/L to mg/dL?

Multiply the mmol/L figure by 38.67. For example, 5.0 mmol/L is about 193 mg/dL. To go the other way, divide mg/dL by 38.67.

Is the factor the same for HDL and LDL?

Yes. Total, HDL and LDL cholesterol all use 38.67 because they are all cholesterol. Triglycerides are a different molecule and use 88.57 instead.

Does this tell me if my cholesterol is high?

No. This converter only changes the unit; it is not a diagnosis. Whether a value is on target depends on your overall heart-health risk, which a clinician assesses alongside the rest of your numbers.

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Cholesterol Unit Converter

UK labs report cholesterol in mmol/L; US sources use mg/dL. The same factor works for total, HDL and LDL cholesterol. Convert instantly, no account needed.

Value in mmol/L

1 mmol/L = 38.67 mg/dL for total, HDL and LDL cholesterol.

How this is worked out

Uses the standard conversion factor for cholesterol: 1 mmol/L = 38.67 mg/dL (molar mass 386.65 g/mol), so 1 mg/dL = 0.0259 mmol/L. This factor applies to total, HDL and LDL cholesterol. Triglycerides use a different factor.

This tool is for general wellbeing information and is not a diagnosis or medical advice. It places the numbers you enter in context; it cannot tell you whether you have a condition. If a result concerns you, or you have symptoms, speak to your GP.

Questions

How do you convert cholesterol from mmol/L to mg/dL?: Multiply the mmol/L figure by 38.67. For example, 5.0 mmol/L is about 193 mg/dL. To go the other way, divide mg/dL by 38.67.
Is the factor the same for HDL and LDL?: Yes. Total, HDL and LDL cholesterol all use 38.67 because they are all cholesterol. Triglycerides are a different molecule and use 88.57 instead.
Does this tell me if my cholesterol is high?: No. This converter only changes the unit; it is not a diagnosis. Whether a value is on target depends on your overall heart-health risk, which a clinician assesses alongside the rest of your numbers.

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<iframe src="https://helvy.co.uk/tools/cholesterol-unit-converter/embed" width="100%" height="420" style="border:1px solid #E7DFCC;border-radius:16px;max-width:560px" title="Cholesterol Unit Converter by Helvy" loading="lazy"></iframe> <p style="font:12px sans-serif"><a href="https://helvy.co.uk/tools/cholesterol-unit-converter">Cholesterol Unit Converter</a> by Helvy</p>

Cholesterol Unit Converter

The panel that covers this

Advanced Heart Health

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Cholesterol Unit Converter

The panel that covers this

Advanced Heart Health

A clearer picture of your health starts with a single drop.