Cardiac Risk Blood Profile

A RISK ASSESSMENT FOR CORONARY HEART DISEASE

This test identifies certain fats and proteins in the blood which may indicate that you're in a higher-risk category

About having a blood profile

Your GP may offer this blood test if you're overweight, unfit or you smoke. Other factors could be high cholesterol, diabetes, an underactive thyroid or a family history of coronary heart disease.

It's quick and straightforward, and understanding your risk early can help you manage it more effectively.

Need to know

What happens during the test?

Your GP will take a blood sample, usually from a vein in your arm. This will be sent to a specialist laboratory to test for the fats and proteins whose presence may indicate a higher risk of developing coronary heart disease.

How to prepare

Your GP will talk you through what will happen during the test, and answer any questions you may have. You should let them know if you're taking any blood thinning medication, such as aspirin, or if you have a condition that makes you more likely to bleed or bruise. They will let you know exactly what you should do beforehand. This may involve avoiding a particular medication or eating for a certain amount of time prior to your blood test.

After the test

You'll be able to go home straight after your blood test. Your GP will send you the results once they're ready. These will also be part of your personal medical record that you can access online.

If your test suggests you may be at a higher risk of developing coronary heart disease, your GP will contact you to discuss the next steps. Depending on the results, this may include dietary and lifestyle recommendations, further diagnostic tests or treatment, a follow-up appointment, or a plan to repeat the test after an appropriate course of action.