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Cardiac Risk Blood Profile Blood Test
During a Cardiac Risk Blood Profile, a blood sample is taken from you to measure factors like cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and other indicators, which helps in evaluating the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
What's Included:
Apolipoproteins are a protein component of lipoproteins transporting fats (lipids) through the bloodstream, they provide structural support to lipoproteins. HDL cholesterol transports unused and excess cholesterol from tissue and returns it to the liver. Cholesterol is then either reused or excreted into bile in the gut.
Apolipoprotein A activates enzymes involved in returning tissue-based cholesterol to HDL for transport back to the liver. Apolipoprotein A1 and A2 are two different forms of this protein. Deficiencies of Apolipoprotein A1 can increase the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Apolipoprotein B is made in the liver as B-100 and in the intestines as B-48. Apo B48 transports fat in dietary intake from the gut to the liver. Apo B100 combines in the Liver with apolipoprotein B to form, triglyeride rich very low density lipoprotein (VLDL). The enzyme Lipoprotein lipase (LPL) removes triglycerides from VLDL, eventually creating LDL cholesterol. Apo B100 is used by cells throughout the body to help cellular uptake of cholesterol. LDL can lead to the accumulation of fatty plagues and the narrowing of blood vessels. Apo B100 levels tend to mirror LDL cholesterol levels.
hs-CRP measures inflammation within the body and is a high-sensitivity test. It can be raised when blood vessels are narrowed as part of coronary artery disease This is used to predict your risk of developing coronary heart disease where the blood vessels become narrowed and can lead to a heart attack.
The lipid profile measures the fat levels in your blood including cholesterol and triglycerides.
Cholesterol is not only found in food but also produced by the liver and is one of the essential building blocks of life. Raised Cholesterol levels form part of the assessment for the risk of building up fatty deposits in blood vessels (Atherosclerosis).
Blood cholesterol levels can be used to determine your risk of heart disease or having a heart attack.
In a lipid test there are four components:
Total cholesterol content.
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol – this has been known as ‘bad cholesterol’. Too much LDL in the bloodstream can cause a build-up of fatty deposits (plaques) in the blood vessel wall, limiting blood flow. Eventually, these plaques can rupture leading to blockage of blood vessels, experienced as a heart attack or stroke.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol – this is known as ‘good cholesterol, it takes LDL cholesterol away from blood vessels, helping to keep the vessels patent and open.
Triglycerides – These are a type of fat that is found stored in fat cells. The body uses this as a store for excess calories that are not used by your body. High levels can develop from a diet high in processed and fatty foods, it is also associated with a sedentary lifestyle, smoking, high alcohol consumption and lack of exercise.
Lipid-level testing can be conducted annually as part of a risk assessment for developing cardiovascular disease. If you have been started on lipid-lowering therapy such as Statins, you may need your levels repeated more frequently, or if significant lifestyle changes such as weight loss or increase in exercise have occurred.
Lp-PLA2 levels aid in the identification of hidden risks of cardiovascular events such as heart attack or stroke that may be missed from more conventional assessment of risk factors including (eg cholesterol levels, blood pressure, family and smoking history). While testing for cholesterol and triglycerides can identify some risk factors, some people with “normal” levels of cholesterol still go on to suffer heart attacks or strokes. By testing for the enzyme Lp-PLA2, you can better assess whether there is plaque build-up in your arteries which raises your risk of a cardiovascular event.
The levels of Lp-PLA2 in the blood rise as the levels of fatty deposits in the arteries increase Individuals who have an elevated PLAC score and one or more risk factors for cardiovascular disease (such as smoking, diabetes, hand igh cholesterol) have more than twice the risk of having a heart attack.
Fibrinogen levels are related to the body breaking down and forming blood clots. It is often paired with high-sensitivity CRP to assess cardiovascular risk. Increased intake of omega-3 and 6 fatty acids may help to reduce levels as well as lose weight, stop smoking and increase exercise.
Raised homocysteine (an amino acid) is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Is useful when measured in patients with strong family histories of cardiovascular disease affecting younger individuals. High levels may need treatment with aspirin or other medications to reduce risk. Lp (a) levels are genetically determined and cannot be changed by lifestyle modification. Lp (a) is comprised of a lipid core enveloped by Apolipoprotein B100 and Apolipoprotein (a).
Common Q&A about Cardiac Risk Blood Profile Tests
Our FAQ section is designed to address common questions you may have, from how our treatments work to what you can expect during and after your session.
Our team is always available to provide additional support if you need more personalised guidance, ensuring that you feel informed and confident every step of the way.
The Cardiac Risk Blood Profile Test is a diagnostic evaluation that measures various blood biomarkers to assess an individual's risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
Typical markers include cholesterol levels (LDL, HDL, total cholesterol), triglycerides, glucose levels, and sometimes inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein (CRP).
It's recommended for individuals with risk factors such as a family history of heart disease, high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol levels.
The test is performed by drawing a blood sample, usually from a vein in the arm, and sending it to a laboratory for analysis.
Fasting for 9-12 hours may be required for accurate lipid panel results, but specific fasting instructions should be provided by your doctor.
Frequency depends on individual risk factors, but it is generally advised to undergo testing every 1-5 years, as recommended by a healthcare provider.
Results indicate your risk of heart disease; elevated levels of certain markers may require lifestyle changes or medical intervention.
While it assesses risk factors, it does not diagnose existing heart diseases; additional tests like EKG or imaging may be necessary.
Healthy dietary habits, regular physical activity, quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight can significantly lower your cardiac risk.
Risks are minimal but may include slight discomfort, bruising, or, rarely, infection at the site of the blood draw.
