Hemoglobin A1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Blood Test:

• Who should get this test: Patients with diabetes or prediabetes, individuals with risk factors for diabetes such as obesity, sedentary lifestyle, or family history of diabetes, or those with symptoms of high blood sugar levels like increased thirst or frequent urination.

• What's included in the test: The A1c test measures the average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months by assessing the percentage of hemoglobin that is glycated (attached to sugar molecules). Higher A1c levels indicate poorer blood sugar control and increased risk of diabetes complications.

• Why someone would check this test: To diagnose diabetes or prediabetes, monitor blood sugar control in individuals with diabetes, guide treatment decisions (such as medication adjustments or lifestyle interventions), or assess the risk of diabetes-related complications such as heart disease, kidney disease, or nerve damage.

 
Cholesterol Panel (Lipid Profile):

• Who should get this test: Patients with risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, a family history of heart disease, or those with unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking or poor diet.

• What's included in the test:

• • Total cholesterol: Measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood.

  • LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein): Often called "bad" cholesterol, it can build up in the walls of arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.

  • HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein): Known as "good" cholesterol, it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.

  • Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood that can also increase the risk of heart disease if levels are too high.

• Why someone would check this test: To assess the risk of heart disease or stroke, monitor cholesterol levels in those with known heart disease or risk factors, guide lifestyle and dietary interventions, or evaluate the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering medications.

Important notes:

• Above are simplified explanations of lab tests. Interpreting Lab tests requires a healthcare professional's expertise.

• Never adjust medication based on self-diagnosis or internet information.

• Always discuss your health and test results with your doctor.

Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Please consult your healthcare professional for diagnosis and treatment.

Cholesterol Panel (Lipid Profile):

• Who should get this test: Patients with risk factors for heart disease, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, a family history of heart disease, or those with unhealthy lifestyle habits like smoking or poor diet.

• What's included in the test:

• • Total cholesterol: Measures the total amount of cholesterol in your blood.

  • LDL cholesterol (low-density lipoprotein): Often called "bad" cholesterol, it can build up in the walls of arteries and increase the risk of heart disease.

  • HDL cholesterol (high-density lipoprotein): Known as "good" cholesterol, it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.

  • Triglycerides: A type of fat in the blood that can also increase the risk of heart disease if levels are too high.

• Why someone would check this test: To assess the risk of heart disease or stroke, monitor cholesterol levels in those with known heart disease or risk factors, guide lifestyle and dietary interventions, or evaluate the effectiveness of cholesterol-lowering medications.