Convert total, LDL, HDL, or non-HDL cholesterol between mmol/L and mg/dL using the standard 38.67 factor, with adjustable result precision.
Cholesterol mmol/L to mg/dL Formula
The following approximate factor converts total, LDL, HDL and non-HDL cholesterol from mmol/L to mg/dL. To convert back, divide mg/dL by 38.67; extra displayed decimal places do not increase laboratory accuracy.
For triglycerides, laboratories use a different conversion factor.
Variables:
- mg/dL is the value in milligrams per deciliter
- mmol/L is the value in millimoles per liter
- 38.67 is the conversion factor for total, LDL, HDL, and non-HDL cholesterol
- 88.57 is the conversion factor for triglycerides
This calculator converts total, LDL, HDL, and non-HDL cholesterol only, all with the 38.67 factor. The 88.57 triglyceride factor is shown only as a contrast and is not selectable in this calculator.
What is Cholesterol mmol/L to mg/dL Conversion?
Cholesterol tests may be reported in either mmol/L or mg/dL depending on the country, laboratory, or medical guideline being used. Total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and non-HDL cholesterol all use the same standard conversion factor of 38.67. Triglycerides are different because of their molecular properties, so they use a factor of 88.57. Converting between these units makes it easier to compare lab reports, reference ranges, and treatment targets across different systems.
How to Convert Cholesterol mmol/L to mg/dL?
The following steps outline how to convert cholesterol mmol/L to mg/dL.
- First, determine the measured value in mmol/L.
- Next, select total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, or non-HDL. Triglycerides are not handled by this calculator.
- Multiply the selected cholesterol value by 38.67.
- After calculating the result, verify your answer with the calculator above.
Example Problem:
Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.
Total Cholesterol = 5.2 mmol/L
Conversion Factor = 38.67
Result = 5.2 × 38.67 = 201.08 mg/dL
Cholesterol mmol/L to mg/dL Conversion Table
The table below shows example conversions for a 5 mmol/L measurement using the correct factor for each lipid parameter.
| Analyte | Factor (mg/dL per mmol/L) | 5 mmol/L in mg/dL |
|---|---|---|
| Total Cholesterol | 38.67 | 193.35 mg/dL |
| LDL Cholesterol | 38.67 | 193.35 mg/dL |
| HDL Cholesterol | 38.67 | 193.35 mg/dL |
| Non-HDL Cholesterol | 38.67 | 193.35 mg/dL |
| Triglycerides (reference only; not available in this calculator) | 88.57 | 442.85 mg/dL |
For example, 3.0 mmol/L of LDL cholesterol is equal to 116.01 mg/dL, while 1.7 mmol/L of triglycerides is equal to 150.57 mg/dL. These conversions are commonly used to compare lipid results across different lab reporting systems.
