Average Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels 2017
Average non-HDL cholesterol levels indicate heart disease risk and vary across countries.
Interactive Map
Complete Data Rankings
Rank | Actions | ||
|---|---|---|---|
1 |  Malaysia | 4.2 mg/dL | |
2 |  Philippines | 4 mg/dL | |
3 |  Thailand | 4 mg/dL | |
4 |  Guyana | 3.9 mg/dL | |
5 |  Lebanon | 3.9 mg/dL | |
6 |  Brunei Darussalam | 3.8 mg/dL | |
7 |  Costa Rica | 3.8 mg/dL | |
8 |  Ecuador | 3.8 mg/dL | |
9 |  Fiji | 3.8 mg/dL | |
10 |  Lithuania | 3.8 mg/dL | |
11 |  Mexico | 3.8 mg/dL | |
12 |  Serbia | 3.8 mg/dL | |
13 |  Singapore | 3.8 mg/dL | |
14 |  Tonga | 3.8 mg/dL | |
15 |  Bulgaria | 3.7 mg/dL | |
16 |  Colombia | 3.7 mg/dL | |
17 |  Cook Islands | 3.7 mg/dL | |
18 |  Croatia | 3.7 mg/dL | |
19 |  France | 3.7 mg/dL | |
20 |  Honduras | 3.7 mg/dL | |
21 |  Kuwait | 3.7 mg/dL | |
22 |  Latvia | 3.7 mg/dL | |
23 |  Malta | 3.7 mg/dL | |
24 |  Mauritius | 3.7 mg/dL | |
25 |  Montenegro | 3.7 mg/dL | |
26 |  Myanmar | 3.7 mg/dL | |
27 |  North Macedonia | 3.7 mg/dL | |
28 |  Panama | 3.7 mg/dL | |
29 |  Samoa | 3.7 mg/dL | |
30 |  Seychelles | 3.7 mg/dL | |
31 |  Slovenia | 3.7 mg/dL | |
32 |  Solomon Islands | 3.7 mg/dL | |
33 |  Albania | 3.6 mg/dL | |
34 |  Andorra | 3.6 mg/dL | |
35 |  Austria | 3.6 mg/dL | |
36 |  Cyprus | 3.6 mg/dL | |
37 |  Dominican Republic | 3.6 mg/dL | |
38 |  Estonia | 3.6 mg/dL | |
39 |  Hungary | 3.6 mg/dL | |
40 |  Indonesia | 3.6 mg/dL | |
41 |  Italy | 3.6 mg/dL | |
42 |  Jordan | 3.6 mg/dL | |
43 |  Mongolia | 3.6 mg/dL | |
44 |  Papua New Guinea | 3.6 mg/dL | |
45 |  Portugal | 3.6 mg/dL | |
46 |  Romania | 3.6 mg/dL | |
47 |  Russia | 3.6 mg/dL | |
48 |  Slovakia | 3.6 mg/dL | |
49 |  Ukraine | 3.6 mg/dL | |
50 |  Uruguay | 3.6 mg/dL | |
51 |  Vanuatu | 3.6 mg/dL | |
52 |  Antigua and Barbuda | 3.5 mg/dL | |
53 |  Bahamas | 3.5 mg/dL | |
54 |  Czech Republic | 3.5 mg/dL | |
55 |  Dominica | 3.5 mg/dL | |
56 |  El Salvador | 3.5 mg/dL | |
57 |  Finland | 3.5 mg/dL | |
58 |  Greece | 3.5 mg/dL | |
59 |  Grenada | 3.5 mg/dL | |
60 |  Guatemala | 3.5 mg/dL | |
61 |  Haiti | 3.5 mg/dL | |
62 |  Iraq | 3.5 mg/dL | |
63 |  Jamaica | 3.5 mg/dL | |
64 |  Maldives | 3.5 mg/dL | |
65 |  Micronesia (Fed. States of) | 3.5 mg/dL | |
66 |  Norway | 3.5 mg/dL | |
67 |  Oman | 3.5 mg/dL | |
68 |  Paraguay | 3.5 mg/dL | |
69 |  Poland | 3.5 mg/dL | |
70 |  Saint Kitts and Nevis | 3.5 mg/dL | |
71 |  Saint Lucia | 3.5 mg/dL | |
72 |  South Korea | 3.5 mg/dL | |
73 |  Trinidad and Tobago | 3.5 mg/dL | |
74 |  Tuvalu | 3.5 mg/dL | |
75 |  United Arab Emirates | 3.5 mg/dL | |
76 |  Uzbekistan | 3.5 mg/dL | |
77 |  Vietnam | 3.5 mg/dL | |
78 |  Argentina | 3.4 mg/dL | |
79 |  Belize | 3.4 mg/dL | |
80 |  Brazil | 3.4 mg/dL | |
81 |  Chile | 3.4 mg/dL | |
82 |  Germany | 3.4 mg/dL | |
83 |  Israel | 3.4 mg/dL | |
84 |  Japan | 3.4 mg/dL | |
85 |  New Zealand | 3.4 mg/dL | |
86 |  Nicaragua | 3.4 mg/dL | |
87 |  Niue | 3.4 mg/dL | |
88 |  North Korea | 3.4 mg/dL | |
89 |  Peru | 3.4 mg/dL | |
90 |  Saudi Arabia | 3.4 mg/dL | |
91 |  Sweden | 3.4 mg/dL | |
92 |  Switzerland | 3.4 mg/dL | |
93 |  Syrian Arab Republic | 3.4 mg/dL | |
94 |  Yemen | 3.4 mg/dL | |
95 |  Algeria | 3.3 mg/dL | |
96 |  Azerbaijan | 3.3 mg/dL | |
97 |  Bahrain | 3.3 mg/dL | |
98 |  Barbados | 3.3 mg/dL | |
99 |  Belarus | 3.3 mg/dL | |
100 |  Bolivia | 3.3 mg/dL | |
101 |  Bosnia and Herzegovina | 3.3 mg/dL | |
102 |  Cambodia | 3.3 mg/dL | |
103 |  China | 3.3 mg/dL | |
104 |  Cuba | 3.3 mg/dL | |
105 |  Egypt | 3.3 mg/dL | |
106 |  Ghana | 3.3 mg/dL | |
107 |  Ireland | 3.3 mg/dL | |
108 |  Kiribati | 3.3 mg/dL | |
109 |  Laos | 3.3 mg/dL | |
110 |  Luxembourg | 3.3 mg/dL | |
111 |  Marshall Islands | 3.3 mg/dL | |
112 |  Netherlands | 3.3 mg/dL | |
113 |  Spain | 3.3 mg/dL | |
114 |  Sri Lanka | 3.3 mg/dL | |
115 |  Suriname | 3.3 mg/dL | |
116 |  Turkey | 3.3 mg/dL | |
117 |  Turkmenistan | 3.3 mg/dL | |
118 |  United Kingdom | 3.3 mg/dL | |
119 |  United States | 3.3 mg/dL | |
120 |  Venezuela | 3.3 mg/dL | |
121 |  Armenia | 3.2 mg/dL | |
122 |  Australia | 3.2 mg/dL | |
123 |  Canada | 3.2 mg/dL | |
124 |  Denmark | 3.2 mg/dL | |
125 |  Timor-Leste | 3.2 mg/dL | |
126 |  Iceland | 3.2 mg/dL | |
127 |  India | 3.2 mg/dL | |
128 |  Iran | 3.2 mg/dL | |
129 |  Kyrgyzstan | 3.2 mg/dL | |
130 |  Republic of Moldova | 3.2 mg/dL | |
131 |  Nauru | 3.2 mg/dL | |
132 |  Nepal | 3.2 mg/dL | |
133 |  Pakistan | 3.2 mg/dL | |
134 |  Palau | 3.2 mg/dL | |
135 |  Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | 3.2 mg/dL | |
136 |  Tanzania | 3.2 mg/dL | |
137 |  Afghanistan | 3.1 mg/dL | |
138 |  Bangladesh | 3.1 mg/dL | |
139 |  Belgium | 3.1 mg/dL | |
140 |  Bhutan | 3.1 mg/dL | |
141 |  Georgia | 3.1 mg/dL | |
142 |  Kazakhstan | 3.1 mg/dL | |
143 |  Libya | 3.1 mg/dL | |
144 |  Qatar | 3.1 mg/dL | |
145 |  Somalia | 3.1 mg/dL | |
146 |  Tunisia | 3.1 mg/dL | |
147 |  Eritrea | 3 mg/dL | |
148 |  Mauritania | 3 mg/dL | |
149 |  Mozambique | 3 mg/dL | |
150 |  South Africa | 3 mg/dL | |
151 |  Sudan | 3 mg/dL | |
152 |  Tajikistan | 3 mg/dL | |
153 |  Benin | 2.9 mg/dL | |
154 |  Comoros | 2.9 mg/dL | |
155 |  Djibouti | 2.9 mg/dL | |
156 |  Gabon | 2.9 mg/dL | |
157 |  Gambia | 2.9 mg/dL | |
158 |  Guinea | 2.9 mg/dL | |
159 |  Madagascar | 2.9 mg/dL | |
160 |  Angola | 2.8 mg/dL | |
161 |  Burundi | 2.8 mg/dL | |
162 |  Cameroon | 2.8 mg/dL | |
163 |  Cabo Verde | 2.8 mg/dL | |
164 |  Central African Republic | 2.8 mg/dL | |
165 |  Chad | 2.8 mg/dL | |
166 |  Congo | 2.8 mg/dL | |
167 |  Côte d'Ivoire | 2.8 mg/dL | |
168 |  Congo, Democratic Republic of the | 2.8 mg/dL | |
169 |  Equatorial Guinea | 2.8 mg/dL | |
170 |  Eswatini | 2.8 mg/dL | |
171 |  Ethiopia | 2.8 mg/dL | |
172 |  Guinea-Bissau | 2.8 mg/dL | |
173 |  Kenya | 2.8 mg/dL | |
174 |  Liberia | 2.8 mg/dL | |
175 |  Mali | 2.8 mg/dL | |
176 |  Morocco | 2.8 mg/dL | |
177 |  Namibia | 2.8 mg/dL | |
178 |  Niger | 2.8 mg/dL | |
179 |  Senegal | 2.8 mg/dL | |
180 |  Sierra Leone | 2.8 mg/dL | |
181 |  Togo | 2.8 mg/dL | |
182 |  Uganda | 2.8 mg/dL | |
183 |  Zimbabwe | 2.8 mg/dL | |
184 |  Botswana | 2.7 mg/dL | |
185 |  Sao Tome and Principe | 2.7 mg/dL | |
186 |  Zambia | 2.7 mg/dL | |
187 |  Burkina Faso | 2.6 mg/dL | |
188 |  Nigeria | 2.6 mg/dL | |
189 |  Rwanda | 2.6 mg/dL | |
190 |  Lesotho | 2.5 mg/dL | |
191 |  Malawi | 2.5 mg/dL |
- #1Malaysia
- #2Philippines
- #3Thailand
- #4Guyana
- #5Lebanon
- #6Brunei Darussalam
- #7Costa Rica
- #8Ecuador
- #9Fiji
- #10Lithuania
Analysis: These countries represent the highest values in this dataset, showcasing significant scale and impact on global statistics.
- #191Malawi
- #190Lesotho
- #189Rwanda
- #188Nigeria
- #187Burkina Faso
- #186Zambia
- #185Sao Tome and Principe
- #184Botswana
- #183Zimbabwe
- #182Uganda
Context: These countries or territories have the lowest values, often due to geographic size, administrative status, or specific characteristics.
Analysis & Context
In 2017, Malaysia recorded the highest Average Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels at 4.20 mg/dL, while the global range spanned from 2.50 mg/dL to 4.20 mg/dL across 191 countries. The global average was 3.31 mg/dL, with a median of 3.30 mg/dL, providing a baseline for cardiovascular health assessments worldwide.
Economic Development and Cholesterol Levels
Economic factors significantly influence Average Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels. High levels in countries like Malaysia (4.20 mg/dL), Philippines (4.00 mg/dL), and Thailand (4.00 mg/dL) may correlate with increased access to high-fat diets, often associated with urbanization and economic growth. These nations have experienced rapid economic development, leading to lifestyle changes that include higher consumption of processed foods.
Conversely, countries with lower levels such as Lesotho (2.50 mg/dL) and Malawi (2.50 mg/dL) often have limited access to processed foods due to economic constraints. These nations are characterized by diets rich in whole grains and legumes, which are typically lower in fats.
Geographic and Cultural Influences
Geography and culture also play pivotal roles in cholesterol levels. Lebanon (3.90 mg/dL) and Guyana (3.90 mg/dL) illustrate how dietary traditions can impact health metrics. In Lebanon, a Mediterranean diet rich in olive oil and nuts may contribute to moderate cholesterol levels despite high-fat content. Meanwhile, Guyana shows how cultural influences, including the preference for fried foods, can elevate cholesterol levels.
In contrast, African countries such as Rwanda (2.60 mg/dL) and Nigeria (2.60 mg/dL) often maintain traditional diets that are lower in animal fats, contributing to their position at the lower end of the spectrum.
Year-over-Year Trends and Significant Changes
Between 2016 and 2017, the average Non-HDL Cholesterol Level decreased slightly by 0.01 mg/dL globally, a reduction of 0.3%. However, some countries experienced notable changes. Guyana, Solomon Islands, Vietnam, Mozambique, and Madagascar each saw increases of 0.10 mg/dL, with Madagascar experiencing the largest percentage increase at 3.6%. These increases could be attributed to shifts in diet and lifestyle as these nations develop.
On the other hand, countries like Austria (-0.10 mg/dL) and Czech Republic (-0.10 mg/dL) saw significant decreases. This reduction might reflect successful public health initiatives aimed at reducing dietary cholesterol through awareness campaigns and improved healthcare policies.
Public Health Implications
The variation in Average Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels underscores the importance of tailored public health strategies. Countries with high levels should prioritize interventions to promote healthier diets and lifestyle changes. For instance, educational programs focusing on the benefits of reducing saturated fat intake and increasing physical activity could be beneficial in Malaysia and Philippines.
Conversely, countries with lower cholesterol levels should continue to promote traditional diets rich in plant-based foods. Nations like Rwanda and Nigeria can serve as models for maintaining heart-healthy dietary habits amidst global dietary shifts.
Overall, understanding these patterns helps inform global health strategies, aiming to reduce the risk of heart disease through informed dietary choices and lifestyle changes, adapted to each country's unique economic and cultural context.
Frequently Asked Questions About Average Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels in 2017
Which country had the highest average non-HDL cholesterol level in 2017?
Malaysia had the highest average non-HDL cholesterol level in 2017, with a value of 4.2 mg/dL.
Which country had the lowest average non-HDL cholesterol level in 2017?
Lesotho had the lowest average non-HDL cholesterol level in 2017, with a value of 2.5 mg/dL.
What was the average non-HDL cholesterol level across all countries in 2017?
The average non-HDL cholesterol level across all countries in 2017 was 3.31 mg/dL.
What was the median non-HDL cholesterol level among countries in 2017?
The median non-HDL cholesterol level among countries in 2017 was 3.3 mg/dL.
How many countries were included in the dataset for average non-HDL cholesterol levels in 2017?
The dataset included 191 countries for average non-HDL cholesterol levels in 2017.
Which countries were in the top 10 for highest average non-HDL cholesterol levels in 2017?
The top 10 countries for highest average non-HDL cholesterol levels in 2017 were Malaysia, Philippines, Thailand, Lebanon, Guyana, Ecuador, Lithuania, Costa Rica, Serbia, and Tonga.
Insights by country
Albania
In 2017, Albania ranked #33 globally for Average Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels, with a value of 3.6 mg/dL. This level is relatively low compared to countries with higher cholesterol levels, such as the United States, which ranks significantly lower. Contributing factors to this statistic include Albania's Mediterranean diet, which is rich in fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats, as well as ongoing public health initiatives aimed at improving cardiovascular health.
Mozambique
In 2017, Mozambique ranked #149 globally with an average non-HDL cholesterol level of 3 mg/dL. This figure is notably lower than many countries, reflecting dietary patterns and health access challenges in the region. Contributing factors include a predominantly low-income population with limited access to healthcare and nutrition education, which affects overall cardiovascular health outcomes.
Benin
In 2017, Benin had an average non-HDL cholesterol level of 2.9 mg/dL, ranking #154 out of 191 countries. This level is significantly lower than the global average, reflecting dietary patterns and health awareness in the region.
The low cholesterol levels in Benin can be attributed to a predominantly plant-based diet and limited access to processed foods, which are more common in wealthier nations. Additionally, healthcare access and public health initiatives in Benin focus on preventive measures, contributing to these favorable cholesterol levels.
Bulgaria
Bulgaria ranked #16 globally in 2017 for Average Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels, with a value of 3.7 mg/dL. This figure is notably lower than many countries in the region, indicating a relatively favorable cholesterol profile among its population. Contributing factors include Bulgaria's dietary habits, which are influenced by traditional Mediterranean cuisine, and increasing public health initiatives aimed at promoting healthier lifestyles.
Indonesia
In 2017, Indonesia ranked #40 globally with an average non-HDL cholesterol level of 3.6 mg/dL. This figure is relatively low compared to some neighboring countries, indicating a potential advantage in cardiovascular health. Contributing factors include Indonesia's diverse diet, which is often rich in fruits and vegetables, as well as ongoing public health initiatives aimed at reducing cholesterol-related health issues.
Denmark
In 2017, Denmark ranked #124 globally with an average non-HDL cholesterol level of 3.2 mg/dL. This figure is relatively low compared to the highest-ranked country, which typically reports levels significantly below the global average. Contributing factors to Denmark's cholesterol levels include its robust healthcare system, which emphasizes preventive care and healthy dietary practices, alongside a population that generally maintains a high standard of living and access to health education.
Jamaica
In 2017, Jamaica ranked #63 globally for Average Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels, with a value of 3.5 mg/dL. This level is relatively low compared to countries with higher rates, such as the United States, which often reports elevated cholesterol levels due to lifestyle factors. Contributing to Jamaica's cholesterol levels are dietary habits influenced by local cuisine, which includes a mix of tropical fruits and vegetables, as well as challenges related to health education and access to healthcare services.
Dominica
In 2017, Dominica ranked #55 globally for Average Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels, with a value of 3.5 mg/dL. This level is relatively low compared to the global average, indicating a healthier lipid profile among its population. Contributing factors include the island's emphasis on a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables, coupled with a limited intake of processed foods, which is common in many Caribbean nations.
Vietnam
In 2017, Vietnam ranked #73 globally with an average non-HDL cholesterol level of 3.5 mg/dL. This figure is relatively low compared to many countries, indicating a healthier lipid profile among its population. Contributing factors include the traditional Vietnamese diet, which is rich in vegetables and low in saturated fats, alongside increasing public health initiatives aimed at reducing cardiovascular diseases.
Andorra
In 2017, Andorra ranked #34 globally with an average non-HDL cholesterol level of 3.6 mg/dL. This figure is notably lower than the global average, indicating a favorable health profile compared to many countries. Contributing factors include Andorra's high standard of living, access to quality healthcare, and a diet that emphasizes fresh, local produce, which may help maintain lower cholesterol levels.
Data Source
Average non-HDL cholesterol levels | Our World in Data
Our World in Data is a research organization that provides comprehensive global data on various topics, including health, economics, and environment. The dataset on average non-HDL cholesterol levels offers country-level statistics to help understand trends and disparities in cardiovascular health.
Visit Data SourceHistorical Data by Year
Explore Average Non-HDL Cholesterol Levels data across different years. Compare trends and see how statistics have changed over time.