Compare two patients' lipid profiles and determine which has higher estimated atherosclerotic risk based on combined LDL and HDL effects:Patient A: LDL = 160 mg/dL, HDL = 55 mg/dL.Patient B: LDL = 130 mg/dL, HDL = 35 mg/dL.Using an integrative approach (higher LDL increases risk; lower HDL increases risk), which patient likely has the higher net risk and why?

• A. Neither patient is at any elevated risk because only VLDL concentrations determine atherosclerosis progression.
• B. Both patients have equal risk because LDL alone determines risk and the small HDL differences do not alter that risk.
• C. Patient A has higher net risk because their LDL is numerically higher and HDL differences are negligible.
• D. Patient B likely has higher net risk because although LDL is lower than A's, B's much lower HDL reduces reverse cholesterol transport substantially and the LDL:HDL ratio is worse overall.

Answer: (D)