Introduction

There are seven critical blood tests that everyone should get to significantly improve their health. This point was driven home when one of our clinicians saw a new patient in his mid-50s who had suffered a preventable heart attack just a month earlier.

The Seven Critical Blood Tests

The first crucial test is Lipoprotein(a) [Lp(a)]. This test is strongly associated with heart attacks and all-cause death rates. Lp(a) levels are primarily driven by genetics, and ideally, they should be below 30 mg/dL. If levels are high, it’s crucial to control other heart attack risk factors through lifestyle modifications and medical interventions.

Next is the general cholesterol blood panel. This includes total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides. Current guidelines recommend lowering LDL cholesterol as much as possible to prevent cardiovascular disease. For those without risk factors, a target LDL cholesterol below 70 mg/dL is advisable. Some experts suggest considering an APO B test for a clearer picture of cholesterol levels.

The third critical test is HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin). This is a marker for diabetes and shows average blood sugar levels over the past 2-3 months. It’s an essential screening tool for detecting diabetes or pre-diabetes.

Tests four through six are sodium, potassium, and creatinine. These are vital screening tools for kidney function and can detect early signs of kidney disease or electrolyte imbalances.

The seventh test is a full blood count. This comprehensive test checks red blood cells, screening for conditions like anemia, and examines white blood cell levels, which can indicate various health issues.

Frequency of Testing

For individuals aged 18-35, these tests should be done at least once. Those over 35 should have them at least every five years. The exception is Lipoprotein(a), which typically only needs to be tested once in a lifetime due to its genetic nature.

Additional Considerations

While these seven tests are crucial, other tests may be necessary based on individual health factors. Liver function tests are recommended annually for those on statins or with specific risk factors. Thyroid function tests are typically only necessary if a patient is symptomatic. Inflammation tests, such as high-sensitivity CRP, are not routinely recommended for everyone. Similarly, micronutrient tests are generally unnecessary for most healthy individuals maintaining a good diet.

The Pitfalls of Excessive Testing

It’s important to note that no medical test is perfect. Each has false positive and false negative rates. This is why pre-test probability is crucial in interpreting results correctly. Some tests also come with risks, such as radiation exposure from CT scans. Therefore, it’s not advisable to run every possible test without good reason.

Conclusion

While these seven tests are crucial for everyone, additional tests should be based on individual health factors and symptoms. It’s important to follow clinical guidelines for preventative care while recognizing that personal health decisions are ultimately up to the individual. A balanced approach to testing, guided by medical professionals, can significantly improve health outcomes and prevent serious conditions like heart attacks.