mojtaba gol razeghi
reza homayoonfar
babak pezeshki
seyyedreza hojjati

Background: The correlation between serum cholesterol and the risk of developing atherosclerosis has been well established in previous research, such as Framingham study. Serum LDL-C measurement is conducted using different methods which are generally divided into two groups, namely direct and indirect. Using indirect methods or calculations such as the Friedewald or Iranian formula for measuring LDL, particularly in developing countries, is quite common. The present study has stepped in to compare the robustness of the extant formulas in prognosticating and determining the incidence of metabolic syndrome. Methods: In this cross-sectional study, the target population was the community of Fasa cohort study. According to the views of the statistical advisor, 9530 people was included in the study, and their LDL level was measured using the existing formulas. Then, the results of the LDL level computed with different formulas were compared with both the status of metabolic syndrome and laboratory tests of individuals. Results: The Iranian formula has the highest area under curve, sensitivity of 0.73, and specificity of 0.77, higher positive and negative predictive values. In Friedewald formula, for example, sensitivity and specificity equal 0.28 and 0.80, respectively. Conclusion: The Iranian formula for plasma LDL calculation has higher precision and application for predicting and measuring the metabolic syndrome in the Iranian population due to its considerable features. It is required to develop a new formula for each population and even for each sex, if possible.

LDL, Metabolic Syndrome, Cholesterol