| April 26, 2025
Introduction
Taking proactive steps for your health through regular screening is commendable! You’ve completed your health screening, and now you have a report filled with numbers and medical terms. Understanding this report is the next crucial step. While the sheer amount of information can seem daunting, knowing what these key markers mean empowers you to have more informed discussions with your doctor about your health.
This guide provides a general overview of common markers found in health screening blood tests. Crucially, remember that this information is for general understanding only. Lab reference ranges can vary, and your results must be interpreted within the context of your individual health history, lifestyle, and other factors. Always discuss your specific results with your family doctor.
Understanding Your Lipid Panel (Cholesterol and Fats)
This panel assesses fats in your blood, which are important indicators of cardiovascular risk.
Total Cholesterol
This measures the overall amount of cholesterol in your blood, including LDL, HDL, and other lipids. While a single number, its significance is best understood by looking at the individual components.
LDL Cholesterol (“Bad” Cholesterol)
Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) can build up in the walls of your arteries, making them hard and narrow. Higher levels are generally associated with increased risk of heart disease and stroke. Your doctor will determine your optimal LDL target based on your overall cardiovascular risk profile.
HDL Cholesterol (“Good” Cholesterol)
High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) helps remove excess cholesterol from your arteries, carrying it back to the liver for processing. Higher levels of HDL are generally protective against heart disease.
Triglycerides
These are another type of fat found in your blood. High levels, especially combined with high LDL or low HDL, can increase cardiovascular risk. Levels can be influenced by diet (sugars, processed carbohydrates, alcohol) and underlying conditions like diabetes.
Checking Your Blood Sugar
These tests help screen for diabetes and prediabetes.
Fasting Blood Glucose
This measures your blood sugar level after an overnight fast (typically 8 hours). Elevated levels may indicate impaired glucose tolerance or diabetes.
HbA1c (Glycated Haemoglobin)
This test provides an average picture of your blood sugar control over the past 2-3 months. It’s a key indicator for diagnosing and monitoring diabetes and prediabetes, reflecting longer-term control rather than just a single point in time.
Assessing Liver Function (Liver Function Tests - LFTs)
These tests measure enzymes and proteins produced by the liver, helping to assess its health and detect potential inflammation or damage.
- ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) & AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase): Enzymes mainly found in liver cells. Elevated levels can indicate liver inflammation or damage from various causes (e.g., fatty liver, viral hepatitis, alcohol, medications).
- ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) & GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase): Enzymes related to the bile ducts. Elevations can suggest issues with bile flow or certain liver/bone conditions.
- Bilirubin: A substance produced during the breakdown of red blood cells. High levels can cause jaundice (yellowing of skin/eyes) and indicate liver or bile duct problems.
Evaluating Kidney Function
These tests assess how well your kidneys are filtering waste products from your blood.
- Creatinine: A waste product generated from muscle metabolism. Levels rise in the blood when kidney function declines.
- eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate): This is a calculation based on your creatinine level, age, sex, and sometimes race. It provides an estimate of how effectively your kidneys are filtering waste – a lower eGFR generally indicates reduced kidney function.
Important Note: Context is Key!
Reading about these markers is helpful, but self-interpreting your results can be misleading or cause unnecessary anxiety. Remember:
- “Normal” ranges vary: Labs use slightly different ranges.
- Isolated results mean little: Your doctor looks at trends over time and the complete picture.
- Context matters: Your age, gender, family history, existing conditions, and medications all influence interpretation.
How We Help You Understand Your Results
At Kenneth Tan Medical Clinic, we believe health screening is just the start of the conversation. When you review your results with our doctors, we will:
- Explain what your specific numbers mean in the context of your health.
- Identify any potential risks or areas needing attention.
- Discuss necessary follow-up tests or monitoring if required.
- Collaborate with you to create a personalized action plan, focusing on lifestyle adjustments (diet, exercise, stress management) and medication if necessary.
- Answer all your questions clearly and patiently.
Conclusion
Your health screening report is a valuable tool, providing insights into your current health status. By understanding the basics of key markers and, most importantly, discussing the findings thoroughly with your trusted family doctor, you can take meaningful steps towards maintaining or improving your well-being.
Book Your Follow-Up Consultation
Don’t let your report sit unread. Schedule an appointment to discuss your health screening results with one of our experienced doctors. We’re here to help you navigate your health journey.
Book Your Appointment Online or call us at 69201952.