Available Blood Tests

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FBC – full blood count, including Haemoglobin which transfers oxygen around the body. Low levels are called anaemia which can lead to and be due to a variety of medical problems.

UE – kidney function tests to measure various parameters including filtration and sodium/potassium levels which are crucial for cell function and control of fluid balance.

LFT – liver function enzyme tests which can help determine if the liver is under stress from filtering and breaking down products.

Thyroid Function Tests – measure of thyroid function which is crucial for body metabolic function.

Lipids - Cholesterol – full profile looking at different types of cholesterol. These are often linked to diet and can be a cause of cardiovascular disease, therefore important to optimise.

Vitamin D – naturally obtained from diet and sunlight exposure. Deficiency can alter cell function, bone metabolism and lead to underperformance in athletes.

CRP – general marker of inflammation in the body. High levels of inflammation can lead to a variety of medical problems including cardiovascular disease.

Glucose / HbA1C – blood glucose level shows the current amount of sugar in the bloodstream. This varies through the day depending on fasting state or foods eaten. High levels can suggest diabetes or glucose intolerance. The HbA1C level gives a guide as to average blood sugars for the prior 3 months and is also used in monitoring of those with known diabetes.

PSA – prostate specific antigen testing can be offered to men aged over 45 as a screening tool for prostate cancer. Results of this test have to be interpreted with caution, and false positive and false negative results are common. Raised levels generally suggest follow up is required as the earlier issues are found, the easier they can be dealt with. One of the clinic doctors can discuss this test and result with you if required.

Ferritin, Vitamin B12 and Folic Acid – key vitamins which are crucial in the development of normal red blood cells and are usually maintained with adequate dietary intake.

Urinalysis – check for presence of multiple parameters including blood, protein and glucose.

Uric acid – high uric acid levels can be associated with increased cardiovascular disease risk.

Lipoprotein (a) – this is large lipoprotein made by the liver to carry fats around the body. It is composed of lipoproteins and 2 other proteins (Apo A/Apo B). It is a sticky molecule which can lead to reduced blood flow and clotting. High lipoprotein a is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease. The amount of lipo a found in the blood is genetic and does not change with age.

Apoliproprotein A1 – the major protein component of HDL (high density lipoprotein). This carries cholesterol away from the arteries to the liver where it can be broken down and excreted. As such it is deemed protective, so high levels are generally felt to be protective and reduce cardiovascular disease risk.

Apolipoprotein B – the major protein component of LDL (low density lipoprotein). This delivers cholesterol to cells, but can also lead to build up in arteries and plaque formation. High levels are therefore linked to atherosclerosis and increased risk of cardiovascular disease.

APO B/A1 ratio – a result of the ratio between the 2 types of apolipoprotein. Ideally would have low Apo B levels with high Apo A1 levels, which would lead to a higher ratio number.

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Other blood tests available on request.