Preventive Health Screening – Extensive
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Get a health checkup from the comfort of your home. The Preventive Health Screening Test measures biomarkers in key areas that may be causing undiagnosed symptoms or be indicative of other health conditions. Use the Preventive Health Screening Test as your annual health screening or as a starting point to further investigate certain health concerns.
Test method: Finger prick test
What do we test for?
About ALT
The enzyme ALT is mainly found in the cells of the liver and in smaller amounts within the kidneys, heart and muscle tissue. If the liver is damaged, blood ALT levels can increase. When the drainage of bile fluid is obstructed, blood ALT levels can also rise.
About Cholesterol
Cholesterol is produced in the liver and is found in every cell of the body. There are two types of cholesterol: one in the form of HDL (high-density cholesterol) and LDL (low-density cholesterol). HDL is also referred to as the ‘good’ cholesterol and LDL is known as the ‘bad’ cholesterol. An elevated cholesterol level is defined as total cholesterol above 6.5 mmol / l.
About Creatinine
Creatinine is a waste product arising from the normal breakdown of muscle tissue. Elevated creatinine levels indicate impaired kidney function or kidney disease. If the kidneys are impaired, blood creatinine levels increase due to poor clearance of creatinine by the kidneys.
About eGFR
eGFR stands for estimated glomerular filtration rate. This value is derived using the amount of creatinine in the blood and indicates how well the kidneys are functioning. An elevated EGFR means that the filtration abilities of the kidneys are lowered, which may indicate impaired kidney function. Poor kidney function can be caused by kidney infections, kidney stones, high blood pressure, diabetes, dehydration, or certain medications.
About Ferritin
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron. This allows your body to use iron when it needs it. The body needs iron for the production of hemoglobin. Hemoglobin carries oxygen in your blood from your lungs to the rest of your body. If your ferritin levels are low, it can be a sign of iron deficiency. In severe cases, or left untreated, this can lead to anemia – a reduced level of hemoglobin or red blood cells.
About Folic Acid
Folic acid is a vitamin that your body cannot make on its own. While most people obtain enough folic acid by eating a varied diet, folic acid deficiency is one of the most common vitamin deficiencies in developed countries. Folic acid is mainly found in green vegetables, fruits and whole grains, but also in milk products. Common symptoms of folic acid deficiency are a loss of appetite, weight loss and/or fatigue. Pregnant women who are deficient in folic acid during early pregnancy are also at a higher risk of having a baby with neural tube defects.
About Gamma GT
Gamma-glutamyltransferase (Gamma-GT or GGT) is an enzyme made in the liver that helps convert and digest substances that enter the body through food and drink. Normally the concentration of GGT in the blood is very low, but can become elevated when the liver is overloaded. This happens when the liver must process a high quantity of certain substances in a short period of time, for example with excessive use of certain medications or alcohol. GGT values will also rise when the bile ducts are blocked, with gallbladder problems, or as a result of liver damage. The oral contraceptive pill can cause a decrease in GGT.
About HbA1c
The term HbA1c stands for ‘hemoglobin A1c’, or glycated hemoglobin. Hemoglobin is a protein found in red blood cells, giving them their color. Hemoglobin in blood carries oxygen from the lungs to the rest of the body. Glucose (sugar) in the blood can also attach to hemoglobin, known as glycated hemoglobin. This means that the more glucose there is in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin there is. Because red blood cells (and therefore also hemoglobin in the red blood cells) live for a maximum of 120 days, an HbA1c value provides insight into the average blood glucose level over the past 10 to 12 weeks. The higher the glucose level has been during the period of time before the test, the higher the HbA1c value will be.
About HDL
HDL stands for High-Density Lipoprotein, which is a type of lipoprotein found in the blood. It is often referred to as "good cholesterol" because it helps remove other types of cholesterol from the bloodstream. This helps to prevent the buildup of excess cholesterol in the arteries, reducing the risk of atherosclerosis (hardening and narrowing of the arteries) and cardiovascular diseases. Having higher levels of HDL in the blood is generally considered beneficial for heart health, as it helps to counteract the negative effects of LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad cholesterol." Regular exercise, a healthy diet, and not smoking can help increase HDL levels.
About LDL
LDL stands for Low-Density Lipoprotein and is often referred to as "bad cholesterol" because elevated levels of LDL can lead to the buildup of cholesterol in the arteries. When there is excess LDL in the bloodstream, it can deposit cholesterol on the arterial walls, forming plaques. Over time, this can narrow and block the arteries, a condition known as atherosclerosis, which increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes. High LDL levels are often associated with an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and other factors related to an unhealthy lifestyle. Lowering LDL cholesterol through lifestyle changes, medications, or a combination of both can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases and improve overall heart health.
About Triglycerides
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood. They are the most common form of fat in the human body and serve as a source of energy for various bodily functions. When you eat, your body converts the calories it doesn't need into triglycerides, which are then stored in fat cells. Between meals, hormones release triglycerides for energy, ensuring a continuous supply of fuel for various metabolic processes. While triglycerides are essential for normal body function, elevated levels can pose health risks. Elevated triglycerides, along with high LDL cholesterol and low HDL cholesterol, are considered risk factors for cardiovascular diseases. Lifestyle changes, including adopting a healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management, can help maintain triglyceride levels within a healthy range and reduce the risk of cardiovascular problems.
About Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is a water-soluble vitamin that plays a crucial role in various bodily processes. It is essential for the production of red blood cells, DNA synthesis, and proper functioning of the nervous system. The human body cannot produce vitamin B12 on its own, so it must be obtained from dietary sources or supplements. Vitamin B12 is naturally found in animal products such as meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. People who do not eat animal products may be at risk of vitamin B12 deficiency, as plant-based foods generally do not contain sufficient amounts of this vitamin. A vitamin B12 deficiency can lead to anemia, fatigue, neurological problems, and other health issues. Common symptoms of B12 deficiency include weakness, tingling or numbness in the hands and feet, memory problems, and difficulty with balance.
About Vitamin D
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble hormone that plays a role in calcium and phosphate absorption in the body. Most vitamin D is produced by the human body itself. This happens when your skin is exposed to UV rays from the sun. Vitamin D can also be found in a number of foods of animal origin, such as egg yolks, fatty fish, and dairy products. Vitamin D can also be found in mushrooms and fortified foods. Vitamin D plays an important role in your body. It ensures the growth and maintenance of strong bones and teeth, ensures the functioning and recovery of your muscles, and promotes proper functioning of your immune system.
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What is the Preventive Health Screening Test?
The Preventive Health Screening Test measures blood sugar, cholesterol and lipid levels, kidney & liver function, key vitamin levels (Folic Acid, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12), and iron (ferritin) levels. The test is a finger prick test that you can easily take from home. Your sample will then be examined by a certified laboratory and you will receive the results within a matter of days. It couldn’t be easier!
What can the results of the Preventive Health Screening test tell you?
Your results will give you information about your risk of lifestyle-related disease as well as vitamin and mineral markers related to immunity and bone health, such as if your vitamin D level is too high. You will receive a detailed report with your test results and what steps you can take to improve your overall health status. We also have medical support staff available to answer your health-related questions.
How can I collect my own sample for the Preventive Health Screening Test?
This is a finger prick test that allows you to collect your sample from home. In order for the laboratory to have sufficient sample material to analyze, you will be asked to fill two microtainers with blood.
Homed-IQ’s Preventive Health Screening Test comes with everything you need to take a blood sample from home. Simply activate your test and follow the detailed instructions included in your kit to prepare your sample, then mail it to our laboratory using the prepaid shipping label. Results will be available within days. As the Preventive Health Screening includes several different blood tests, two blood samples are required.
- 3 x lancets
- 2x blood collection tubes (1x Serum tube, 1x EDTA tube)
- 4x alcohol wipes
- 2x band aids
- 2x alcohol-free disinfecting wipes
- 1x return envelope
- 1x protective bag with absorbent material
1. Blood Sugar
HbA1c
This test result gives an indication of your average blood sugar level over the past three months. HbA1c measures the percentage of blood sugar attached to hemoglobin, the blood protein that carries oxygen. The higher the percentage, the higher your blood sugar. High blood sugar level can be linked to Type 1 Diabetes and Type 2 Diabetes. Do you want to know what is the difference between Diabetes Type 1 and Type 2? Then our article “Symptoms of Type 1 and Type 2 Diabetes” might be interesting for you!
2. Cholesterol and Lipids
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is produced in the liver and is found in every cell of the body. The body uses cholesterol as a building block for cells and hormones and for the production of bile. There are two types of cholesterol: one in the form of HDL (high-density cholesterol) and LDL (low-density cholesterol). HDL is also referred to as the ‘good’ cholesterol and LDL is known as the ‘bad’ cholesterol.
HDL
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) is also known as the “good” cholesterol because it transports excess bad cholesterol to your liver to clear it. Higher HDL levels are associated with a lower risk of heart attack and stroke. Lifestyle changes such as increasing exercise, quitting smoking, and improving one’s diet have been seen to increase HDL.
LDL
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) transports cholesterol throughout the body, creating the risk that cholesterol builds up in the arteries and can cause cardiovascular disease. Elevated LDL can indicate an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
HDL % of total cholesterol
The percentage of total cholesterol refers to the amount of HDL (= “good” cholesterol) in the body that can fight the LDL (= “bad” cholesterol). The higher the percentage of total cholesterol is HDL, the better. In case you want to learn more about cholesterol, HDL and LDL, feel free to check out our article “Cholesterol and your health“.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are the most common types of fats in the body. Excess calories, alcohol and sugars are converted into triglycerides and stored in the body as fat. An elevated triglyceride level increases the risk of cardiovascular disease.
3. Liver Function
Your liver is an organ with many important functions. Some of its functions are that it removes wastes and toxins from your blood, produces bile which aids in food digestion, produces cholesterol and other fat-carrying proteins for the rest of the body, processes hemoglobin, regulates blood clotting, and converts excess glucose to glycogen for storage.
ALT
Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) are enzymes found primarily in the liver. Generally, ALT levels in the blood are low. However, damage to the liver can cause these enzymes to leak from the liver into the bloodstream, elevating blood liver enzyme levels. The same is true for GammaGT. High levels of GammaGT in the blood can be a sign of liver or bile duct damage.
GammaGT (GGT)
Gamma-glutamyltransferase (Gamma-GT or GGT) is an enzyme made in the liver that helps convert and digest substances that enter the body through food and drink. Normally, the concentration of GGT in the blood is very low but can become elevated when the liver is overloaded. This happens when the liver must process a high quantity of certain substances in a short period of time, for example with excessive use of certain medications or alcohol. GGT values will also rise when the bile ducts are blocked, with gallbladder problems, or as a result of liver damage.
Creatinine & eGFR
A creatinine test can indicate how well the kidneys are functioning. The kidneys are organs that filter waste products from the blood. Creatinine is a waste product from the muscles. All waste products are stored in the bladder until you excrete them. If you have an elevated creatinine level, this may be a sign that the kidneys are damaged or not functioning properly. An elevated creatinine level can be caused by inflammation of the kidneys, a kidney-related bacterial infection, an enlargement of the prostate, or kidney stones. Diabetes, dehydration, or excessive use of medication can also be a cause.
A low creatinine value is usually not alarming and is usually caused by a decrease in muscle mass, which often comes with age. The eGFR provides information about the kidney’s ability to purify the blood and remove waste products through urine.
4. Vitamin Levels
This test measures the Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, and Folic Acid levels in your blood. Based on the test result, it can be determined whether there are abnormal levels of one of the above vitamins. This can indicate that changes in diet or supplements are needed.
5. Iron
Ferritin
Ferritin is a protein that stores iron in your body. The amount of ferritin in your blood indicates the amount of iron in your body. A low ferritin value can indicate anemia.
Frequently asked questions
Why are regular preventive health screening tests important?
How often should you do a general health check?
How can I use the results of this blood test?
How accurate is this at home health test?
How will the analysis of this blood test take place?
Is there another way to collect results, instead of using a blood test?
Does my insurance cover a complete blood test?
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