Cholesterol Isn’t Half Bad
It may surprise you to know that cholesterol itself isn’t bad. Cholesterol is one of the many substances created and used by our bodies to keep us healthy. Some of the cholesterol we need is produced naturally while some of it comes from what we eat.
There are two types of cholesterol: HDL, the “good” cholesterol, and LDL, the “bad” cholesterol. A healthy level of HDL helps protect against heart disease and stroke.
The total cholesterol-to-HDL ratio (chol/HDL ratio) is also an indicator in determining an individual’s risk of developing heart disease. This ratio is obtained by dividing the total cholesterol value by the value of the HDL cholesterol. Healthy, higher levels of HDL – the “good” cholesterol – helps to drive down the ratio. This is a good thing! Low ratios indicate a lower risk and, thus, are more desirable.
Some carriers no longer look at total cholesterol in assessing risk, but reviews only the cholesterol/HDL ratio instead.
Now clients with high total cholesterol but lower, favorable ratios can still qualify for best rates.
Consider these examples:
- Male client, age 45, NS
- Seeking $2 mil of Term, Cholesterol on exam was 298 with a Chol/HDL ratio of 5.0
- Does not take any medication
Underwriting outcome: PREFERRED BEST!
- Female client, age 60, NS
- Seeking $1 mil of UL, Cholesterol on exam was 275 with a Chol/HDL ratio of 6.0
- Takes a prescribed cholesterol medication
Underwriting outcome: PREFERRED!
- Male client, age 52, NS
- Seeking $500k of Term, Cholesterol on exam was 260 with a Chol/HDL ratio of 7.0
- Takes a prescribed cholesterol medication
Underwriting outcome: STANDARD PLUS!
*Total cholesterol cannot exceed 299
We also have other top rated carriers who use only cholesterol/HDL ratios in their underwriting criteria.
Contact our Underwriting Team today for more information and let us help you boost your sales this quarter!