What is the purpose of this test?
The LetsGetChecked - Cholesterol Blood Spot Test Kit is a comprehensive and convenient health monitoring tool. It is designed to help individuals track their cholesterol levels from the comfort of their homes. The test kit measures total cholesterol and HDL (good) cholesterol levels in the blood, which can give individuals a better understanding of their cardiovascular health.
High levels of cholesterol in the blood can be a major risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. The LetsGetChecked - Cholesterol Blood Spot Test Kit is an easy, non-invasive way to check cholesterol levels regularly and identify any potential issues before they become more serious.
The test kit includes everything needed to collect a small blood sample from the fingertip, including a lancet, alcohol swab, and blood collection card. Once the sample has been collected, simply send it back to the lab using the prepaid envelope provided. Results are typically available within 2-5 days and can be accessed securely online.
By monitoring cholesterol levels regularly, individuals can make informed decisions about their lifestyle and diet to help prevent heart disease and other related conditions. If the results indicate a need to take action, individuals can work with their healthcare provider to develop a plan tailored to their needs.
The LetsGetChecked - Cholesterol Blood Spot Test Kit measures the following:
Triglycerides - Triglycerides are one of the most common fats found in the body. When you regularly consume more calories than you burn, your body converts these excess calories into triglycerides, which are stored in your body as fat.
Total Cholesterol - Cholesterol is a waxy substance found in all cells in your body. Your body needs small amounts for many reasons, from helping to make vitamin D to digesting fats. However, high levels can increase your risk of heart disease, so it's important to get the right balance.
HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein) - Typically referred to as "good cholesterol," high-density lipoprotein (HDL) helps to remove "bad cholesterol" from your bloodstream and send it back to the liver. Higher levels of HDL are considered a good thing.
LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) - Known as "bad cholesterol," low-density lipoprotein (LDL) usually makes up most of the cholesterol in your body. When your body has too much LDL cholesterol, it can build up in the walls of your blood vessels and increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
HDL % of Total Cholesterol - The HDL % of total cholesterol refers to the amount of "good cholesterol" in the body, compared to the total amount of cholesterol. The higher this percentage, the better.
Lp(a) - Lipoprotein(a) [LP(a)] is a low-density lipoprotein. Lipoproteins carry cholesterol through your bloodstream to your cells. Your genetic makeup determines your Lp(a) level. High Lp(a) levels can be associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
Benefits of the LetsGetChecked - Cholesterol Blood Spot Test Kit:
- Convenience: Home cholesterol test kits offer the convenience of testing cholesterol levels from the comfort of one's home. his eliminates the need for a visit to a healthcare facility.
- Privacy: Some individuals prefer the privacy of conducting medical tests at home. With a home cholesterol test kit, patients can collect their sample in private and send it back for analysis.
- Accessibility: Home test kits can be ordered online, making them accessible to individuals who may have difficulty accessing healthcare facilities due to various reasons, such as mobility issues or geographical constraints.
- Time-saving: Home cholesterol testing eliminates the need to schedule appointments, travel to a clinic, and wait for results. This can save time for individuals with busy schedules.
- Regular Monitoring: For individuals with conditions such as high cholesterol, regular monitoring is essential. Home test kits allow for more frequent testing without the inconvenience of multiple clinic visits.
- Patient Empowerment: Home test kits empower individuals to take control of their health by providing them with information about their cholesterol levels. This information can be valuable for making lifestyle and dietary changes.
When should I order a Cholesterol Blood Spot Test Kit?
Individuals may order this test kit if they have an increased risk of developing high cholesterol. These risk factors include:
- A family history of heart disease or high cholesterol
- Overweight or obese
- Drink alcohol and/or smoke frequently.
- Lead a sedentary lifestyle.
- Diet is high in fat and highly processed foods.
- Suffer from diabetes, kidney disease, polycystic ovary syndrome, inflammatory colon disease, or an underactive thyroid gland.
