Many common and critical diseases and conditions, when caught early, can be waylaid or even stopped in their tracks. How? By detecting the early warning signs with the help of blood tests.

Importance of regular blood tests

It takes a brave man or woman to voluntarily opt for a blood test. It does, however, become easier when you realise that blood testing is a simple yet powerful strategy to help you proactively take charge of your overall state of health. Blood tests are often able to detect the silent warning signs and biomarkers that precede the development of serious diseases and conditions. They offer you and your doctor the chance to plan and execute a plan of action to prevent a steady progression to full-blown, life-threatening disease.

Here are six essential blood tests you should have:

1.    Complete blood count (CBC)

The Complete Blood Count (CBC) test measures the number, variety, percentage, concentration and quality of your red oxygen-carrying blood cells, your white infection-fighting blood cells and the blood clotting particles in your blood platelets. The results are used to screen for infections, anaemias, blood cancers, blood clotting and immune system problems. Anaemia is a condition in which you don’t have enough healthy red blood cells or haemoglobin, the oxygen-carrying pigment and predominant protein in red blood cells, to carry adequate oxygen to your tissues.

2. Basic metabolic panel (BMP)

The BMP is a group of tests that measures different chemicals in the blood. Also included in the test is an assessment of the levels of critical minerals such as calcium, potassium and iron in the blood. Kidney problems, bone disease, thyroid disease and even cancer have been associated with high levels of calcium. On the other hand, abnormal electrolyte levels (sodium, potassium, bicarbonate and chloride) have been associated with signs of dehydration, kidney and liver disease, high blood pressure and heart failure. Blood glucose, which is critically important for detecting early-stage diabetes, metabolic syndrome and coronary artery disease, is also tested. The haemoglobin A1C test is often used as a screening tool for diabetes.

3. Lipoprotein panel

A lipoprotein panel is a blood test that can help assess your coronary heart disease (CHD) risk. This blood chemistry panel provides information on the status of your cardiovascular (heart and lungs) system by testing your HDL (high-density lipoprotein), LDL (low-density lipoprotein), triglycerides ratios and total cholesterol levels. High levels of LDL have been identified as the main source of cholesterol build-up and blockages in the arteries. Abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels may be signs of increased risk for CHD.

4. CRP

A C-reactive protein (CRP) test measures the levels of this protein, a powerful indicator of coronary heart and cardiovascular problems, at a very early stage of the disease. This life-saving test allows doctors the time to intervene and start preventative treatment immediately. Increased levels of C-reactive protein have also been associated with a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, the loss of cognitive (intellectual and reasoning) ability in seemingly healthy people and the progression of age-related macular degeneration. Macular degeneration is the leading cause of severe vision loss in people over age 60.

5. TSH

Measuring thyroid stimulating hormones (TSH) is the best test for monitoring thyroid function. Increased thyroid activity (hyperthyroidism) or low thyroid activity (hypothyroidism) may occur. Both conditions need treatment to prevent more serious, illnesses such as heart attacks and osteoporosis. Your thyroid has a major effect on your quality of life; it affects your weight, menstrual periods in women, hair, skin, muscles, energy levels and mood. There are also additional, more specific, thyroid tests such as the T3 and T4 follow-up tests that your doctor may order.

6. Prostate-specific antigen (PSA)

Prostate-specific antigen (PSA) is a protein manufactured by the prostate gland in men. Elevated levels may suggest an enlarged prostate, prostate inflammation, or prostate cancer.

 

Sources

Baron, P. The ten most important blood tests. Retrieved from: http://www.lifeextension.com/magazine/2006/5/report_blood/page-04
Maxfield, C. 2016. Six essential blood tests you should have. Retrieved from: http://www.menshealth.com/health/6-essential-blood-tests-you-should-have
Pikul, C. Five blood tests that are worth the prick. Retrieved from: http://www.oprah.com/health/the-most-important-blood-tests
Types of blood tests. 2012. Retrieved from: http://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/health-topics/topics/bdt/types