What HDL level is listed as the target for men?

• A. 0.8 mmol/L
• B. 1.2 mmol/L
• C. 1.0 mmol/L
• D. 1.4 mmol/L

Answer: (C)

HDL cholesterol is the "good" cholesterol that helps remove excess cholesterol from arteries. For men, the commonly listed target is at least 1.0 mmol/L (about 40 mg/dL). This threshold is considered desirable because it provides a baseline level of protective HDL. Levels below 1.0 mmol/L indicate less of this protective effect, while levels above—such as 1.2 or 1.4 mmol/L—show greater protection, but 1.0 mmol/L is the standard target specified for men. (Female targets are typically higher, around 1.3 mmol/L.)