Lipid Profile Screen (5) Test

The lipid profile test also known as lipid panel or coronary risk panel is a blood test used as a part of cardiac risk assessment to assess an individual’s risk of heart disease. The test measures the lipid level in the blood. Lipids are a group of fats and fat-like substances which act as source of energy. It is necessary to monitor and maintain healthy levels of lipids in order to stay healthy, especially individuals with risk of cardiovascular disease. A lipid profile typically includes measuring total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) and triglyceride level.

It is recommended that you wear a sleeveless or short-sleeved shirt or a full-sleeved shirt with sleeves rolled up to enable easy withdrawal of blood from your arm.

This test requires fasting for 9 to 12 hours before the blood sample is taken. You are allowed to drink only water. Certain medications that you are currently taking may affect the test results. So, make sure to inform your doctor regarding all the medications, vitamins, herbs and supplements you are taking. In case the blood withdrawn is to be used for further tests, your doctor will inform you the necessary preparations in prior.

The lipid profile test is used to assess an individual’s risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD) and to monitor treatment accordingly whether it is borderline or high risk.

A few millilitres of blood sample is required for this test. This will be obtained directly from your arm. The insertion site is prepared for the withdrawal of blood. An elastic band is wrapped around your arm to make the veins swell with blood. The site to be injected is cleansed with antiseptic. The needle is inserted into the vein and a tube attached to the needle is then filled up with blood. A gauze pad or cotton ball is placed over the punctured area as the needle is removed. The sample is transferred to the laboratory for further examination.