Lab test

Cardiac Health & Cholesterol

Cardiac and cholesterol testing groups several blood tests used to assess heart health and cardiovascular risk.

Typical price

From $118

Results

1-3 business days

Preparation

See preparation notes below

Sample

Blood draw or sample collection at a local center

Cardiac and cholesterol testing groups several blood tests used to assess heart health and cardiovascular risk. It typically combines a standard lipid panel with additional markers such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein, lipoprotein(a), and apolipoprotein B. Together these tests look at cholesterol, triglycerides, inflammation, and particle-related risk. Clinicians order them for people with a family history of heart disease, existing cardiovascular conditions, diabetes, or other risk factors, and to monitor risk over time. Each marker is a piece of the risk picture, not a diagnosis, and is interpreted by a healthcare provider.

• Total cholesterol The combined amount of cholesterol carried in the blood.
• LDL cholesterol Low-density lipoprotein, often called bad cholesterol, which can contribute to arterial plaque.
• HDL cholesterol High-density lipoprotein, often called good cholesterol.
• Triglycerides A type of blood fat that reflects diet and metabolism.
• VLDL cholesterol A triglyceride-rich particle calculated from triglyceride levels.
• Non-HDL cholesterol Total cholesterol minus HDL, reflecting cholesterol carried by potentially atherogenic particles.
• hs-CRP (high-sensitivity C-reactive protein) A marker of low-grade inflammation that can add to cardiovascular risk assessment.
• Lipoprotein(a) A genetically influenced cholesterol-carrying particle and cardiovascular risk marker.
• Apolipoprotein B A protein on atherogenic particles that reflects the number of these particles.

• People with a family history of early heart disease
• Individuals with diabetes, high blood pressure, or metabolic syndrome
• Those with a personal history of cardiovascular events
• People being monitored for cardiovascular risk over time
• Anyone whose healthcare provider wants a broader heart health assessment

• Fasting for about 9 to 12 hours is often requested for the lipid components; follow the instructions with your order
• Stay hydrated before the blood draw
• Avoid alcohol and heavy meals the night before
• Tell the lab about medications and supplements, including cholesterol and anti-inflammatory drugs

High LDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides, or apolipoprotein B and low HDL are associated with increased cardiovascular risk, while an elevated hs-CRP suggests low-grade inflammation that may add to that risk. Lipoprotein(a) can reveal a genetically influenced risk factor. No single value confirms heart disease, and risk is judged from the overall pattern and your history. Discuss your cardiac and cholesterol results with a healthcare provider, who can interpret them and recommend appropriate next steps.

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