Description

The Heart Risk Screening Advanced Blood Panel is designed for individuals who are concerned about their cardiovascular health or are at an increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD). This panel is particularly beneficial for individuals with certain risk factors such as a family history of heart disease, smoking, or a sedentary lifestyle.

This advanced blood test evaluates key biomarkers that can provide insight into your heart health and help identify potential risks before they manifest as clinical issues. Early detection can help guide preventive measures or interventions to manage and reduce your cardiovascular risk.

Key Symptoms and Risk Factors for CVD:

  • Family History of heart disease
  • Smoking History
  • Sedentary Lifestyle
  • Shortness of Breath or difficulty breathing
  • Chest Pain
  • Previous Heart Attack or Stroke
  • Irregular Heartbeats or palpitations
  • Swollen Legs, ankles, or feet (indicative of fluid retention)

Biomarkers Included in the Panel:

1. Advanced Lipid Panel (ALP)

The Advanced Lipid Panel provides a detailed analysis of your lipid profile, including the sizes and number of lipoprotein particles. It goes beyond the traditional cholesterol test, which only measures total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL levels.

  • Key Components:
  • LDL-P (Low-Density Lipoprotein Particles)
  • HDL-P (High-Density Lipoprotein Particles)
  • Total Cholesterol
  • Triglycerides
  • LDL-C (LDL Cholesterol)
  • HDL-C (HDL Cholesterol)
  • VLDL (Very Low-Density Lipoproteins)
  • Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)

The ALP provides more specific data, like particle size and number, which are essential in predicting heart disease risk. Smaller, denser LDL particles, for example, are more likely to contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries.

2. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)

The CMP assesses your overall metabolic health and provides information about kidney and liver function, blood sugar levels, and electrolytes. Many of these biomarkers can indirectly influence your heart health and overall cardiovascular risk.

  • Key Components:
  • Glucose – High levels are associated with diabetes, a major CVD risk factor.
  • Kidney Function Markers (Creatinine, BUN)
  • Electrolytes (Sodium, Potassium, Calcium, Chloride)
  • Liver Function Markers (ALP, ALT, AST, Bilirubin)
  • Total Protein
  • Albumin and Globulin
  • Calcium
  • Bicarbonate (CO2)

3. C-Reactive Protein, High Sensitivity (CRP, HS)

High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP) is a sensitive marker of systemic inflammation. Chronic inflammation is a key contributor to the development of atherosclerosis, which is the hardening and narrowing of the arteries. Elevated CRP levels are associated with a higher risk of heart disease and stroke.

  • Interpretation:
  • Low risk: < 1 mg/L
  • Average risk: 1-3 mg/L
  • High risk: > 3 mg/L

4. Homocysteine

Homocysteine is an amino acid that, at high levels, can damage the inner lining of blood vessels and promote clot formation. Elevated homocysteine levels are a known risk factor for atherosclerosis, stroke, and heart disease.

  • Elevated levels of homocysteine can result from nutrient deficiencies (especially B6, B12, and folate) or genetic factors.
  • Optimal levels: 5-12 micromoles per liter
  • Higher levels are linked with increased cardiovascular risk.

Fasting Guidelines:

  • Fasting is recommended for 8-12 hours prior to testing, as this ensures accurate readings of your lipid levels and glucose metabolism.
  • Only water is allowed during the fasting period.

Why Should You Consider This Panel?

This advanced screening is particularly important for:

  • Individuals with existing cardiovascular symptoms or family history of heart disease.
  • People with high cholesterol, diabetes, or hypertension (all significant risk factors for CVD).
  • Those looking to prevent heart disease by catching early signs of cardiovascular issues.
  • Monitoring individuals who have already experienced a heart attack or stroke for their ongoing risk.