Published: 30 Jul 2024

Blood Tests for Cardiovascular Disease Risk

These blood tests provide valuable information about your heart health and risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Standard Tests for Routine Check-ups:

* Lipid profile: Measures cholesterol levels (HDL, LDL, total) and triglycerides.
* High-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP): Indicates inflammation, a risk factor for CVD.
* Lipoprotein(a)
* Apolipoprotein B

Tests for Specialized Situations:

* People with heart symptoms: Determine if there is an immediate heart problem or damage.

Factors Influencing Risk:

Your CVD risk is based on factors such as age, family history, and other medical conditions.

Interpretation of Results:

* Discuss your results with your healthcare provider to understand their implications for your health.
* Laboratory values vary, so it's crucial to discuss the findings in the context of your circumstances.

Reliability of Lab Results:

* Stringent procedures and cross-checking ensure accurate results.
* Medical research continuously updates best practices for diagnosis and treatment based on evidence-based medicine.