Compare - Diabetes and Heart Test (LGC)

The following is a list of what is included in the item above. Click the test(s) below to view what biomarkers are measured along with an explanation of what the biomarker is measuring.

Also known as: A1c, Glycated Hemoglobin, Glycohemoglobin, Glycosylated Hemoglobin, HA1c, HbA1c, Hemoglobin A1c, Hemoglobin A1c HgbA1C, Hgb A1c

Hemoglobin A1c

The A1c test evaluates the average amount of glucose in the blood over the last 2 to 3 months. It does this by measuring the concentration of glycated (also often called glycosylated) hemoglobin A1c. Hemoglobin is an oxygen-transporting protein found inside red blood cells (RBCs). There are several types of normal hemoglobin, but the predominant form – about 95-98% – is hemoglobin A. As glucose circulates in the blood, some of it spontaneously binds to hemoglobin A. The hemoglobin molecules with attached glucose are called glycated hemoglobin. The higher the concentration of glucose in the blood, the more glycated hemoglobin is formed. Once the glucose binds to the hemoglobin, it remains there for the life of the red blood cell – normally about 120 days. The predominant form of glycated hemoglobin is referred to as HbA1c or A1c. A1c is produced on a daily basis and slowly cleared from the blood as older RBCs die and younger RBCs (with non-glycated hemoglobin) take their place. This test is used to monitor treatment in someone who has been diagnosed with diabetes. It helps to evaluate how well their glucose levels have been controlled by treatment over time. This test may be used to screen for and diagnose diabetes or risk of developing diabetes. In 2010, clinical practice guidelines from the American Diabetes Association (ADA) stated that A1c may be added to fasting plasma glucose (FPG) and oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) as an option for diabetes screening and diagnosis. For monitoring purposes, an A1c of less than 7% indicates good glucose control and a lower risk of diabetic complications for the majority of diabetics. However, in 2012, the ADA and the European Association for the Study of Diabetes (EASD) issued a position statement recommending that the management of glucose control in type 2 diabetes be more "patient-centered." Data from recent studies have shown that low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) can cause complications and that people with risk of severe hypoglycemia, underlying health conditions, complications, and a limited life expectancy do not necessarily benefit from having a stringent goal of less than 7% for their A1c. The statement recommends that people work closely with their doctor to select a goal that reflects each person's individual health status and that balances risks and benefits.

Also known as: Lipid Panel with Ratios (fasting), Lipid Profile with Ratios (fasting), Lipids

Chol/HDLC Ratio

Cholesterol, Total

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that occurs naturally in all parts of the body. Your body needs some cholesterol to work properly. But if you have too much in your blood, it can combine with other substances in the blood and stick to the walls of your arteries. This is called plaque. Plaque can narrow your arteries or even block them. High levels of cholesterol in the blood can increase your risk of heart disease. Your cholesterol levels tend to rise as you get older. There are usually no signs or symptoms that you have high blood cholesterol, but it can be detected with a blood test. You are likely to have high cholesterol if members of your family have it, if you are overweight or if you eat a lot of fatty foods. You can lower your cholesterol by exercising more and eating more fruits and vegetables. You also may need to take medicine to lower your cholesterol.

HDL Cholesterol

LDL-Cholesterol

LDL/HDL Ratio

Non HDL Cholesterol

Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a form of fat and a major source of energy for the body. This test measures the amount of triglycerides in the blood. Most triglycerides are found in fat (adipose) tissue, but some triglycerides circulate in the blood to provide fuel for muscles to work. After a person eats, an increased level of triglycerides is found in the blood as the body converts the energy not needed right away into fat. Triglycerides move via the blood from the gut to adipose tissue for storage. In between meals, triglycerides are released from fat tissue to be used as an energy source for the body. Most triglycerides are carried in the blood by lipoproteins called very low density lipoproteins (VLDL). High levels of triglycerides in the blood are associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease (CVD), although the reason for this is not well understood. Certain factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels and to risk of CVD, including lack of exercise, being overweight, smoking cigarettes, consuming excess alcohol, and medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.
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The Compare - Diabetes and Heart Test (LGC) panel contains 2 tests with 8 biomarkers.

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Diabetes and Heart Lab Test

The Diabetes and Heart lab test, often referred to as a lipid panel with Hemoglobin A1c, is a comprehensive diagnostic assessment that combines lipid profile measurements with Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) to evaluate both cardiovascular and diabetes risk factors. This panel includes markers such as total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, LDL/HDL ratio, non-HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, cholesterol/HDL ratio, and HbA1c.

Collection Method: Blood Draw

Specimen Type: Serum

Test Preparation: Patient should be fasting 9-12 hours prior to collection.

When and Why the Diabetes and Heart Lab Test May Be Ordered

Timing of the Test: The Diabetes and Heart lab test is typically ordered as part of routine health screenings or for individuals with specific risk factors, medical conditions, or symptoms. It may be done without fasting or with fasting, depending on the specific tests included.

Reasons for Ordering the Test:

  1. Cardiovascular Risk Assessment: The primary reason for ordering this test is to assess cardiovascular risk. Elevated cholesterol levels and unfavorable lipid profiles are associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.

  2. Diabetes Screening and Monitoring: HbA1c measurement is included to screen for diabetes and monitor blood sugar control in individuals with known diabetes. High HbA1c levels are indicative of poor glucose control over an extended period.

  3. Cholesterol and Lipid Profile Assessment: The test helps evaluate levels of total cholesterol, HDL cholesterol (often referred to as "good" cholesterol), LDL cholesterol (often referred to as "bad" cholesterol), and triglycerides. Abnormal lipid profiles can contribute to atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease.

  4. Risk Factor Identification: Healthcare providers use this panel to identify individuals at risk of developing heart disease, allowing for early intervention and lifestyle modifications.

  5. Treatment Guidance: For individuals with elevated cholesterol levels or poorly controlled diabetes, the results help guide treatment decisions. Treatment may involve lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both.

What the Diabetes and Heart Lab Test Checks For

The Diabetes and Heart lab test assesses several key markers:

  1. Cholesterol Total: Measures the total concentration of cholesterol in the bloodstream.

  2. HDL Cholesterol: Evaluates the levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is considered "good" cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the arteries.

  3. LDL Cholesterol: Measures low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, often referred to as "bad" cholesterol because it can contribute to plaque buildup in the arteries.

  4. LDL/HDL Ratio: Calculated by dividing the LDL cholesterol by the HDL cholesterol, this ratio provides insights into the balance between "bad" and "good" cholesterol.

  5. Non-HDL Cholesterol: Calculated by subtracting HDL cholesterol from total cholesterol, this marker represents the total cholesterol content minus the protective HDL fraction.

  6. Triglycerides: Assesses the levels of triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. Elevated triglycerides are associated with an increased risk of heart disease.

  7. Chol/HDLC Ratio: This ratio is calculated by dividing the total cholesterol by the HDL cholesterol and provides additional information about cardiovascular risk.

  8. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c): Measures the percentage of hemoglobin that is glycated, reflecting average blood sugar levels over the past two to three months. Elevated HbA1c levels indicate poor blood sugar control.

How Health Care Providers Use the Results

Healthcare providers use the results of the Diabetes and Heart lab test to:

  1. Assess Cardiovascular Risk: Elevated cholesterol levels, particularly LDL cholesterol and triglycerides, are associated with an increased risk of heart disease. Providers use these results to assess cardiovascular risk and make recommendations for lifestyle changes, medication, or further evaluation.

  2. Screen for Diabetes: HbA1c levels help screen for diabetes and assess blood sugar control. High HbA1c levels may prompt further testing or adjustments to diabetes management plans.

  3. Guide Treatment Decisions: For individuals with elevated cholesterol levels or poorly controlled diabetes, the results guide treatment decisions. Treatment may include statin medications for cholesterol management, antidiabetic medications, lifestyle modifications, or a combination of these approaches.

  4. Monitor Progress: In individuals already receiving treatment for cholesterol or diabetes management, regular testing with this panel helps healthcare providers monitor progress and adjust treatment plans as needed.

In summary, the Diabetes and Heart lab test combines lipid profile measurements with HbA1c to assess cardiovascular and diabetes risk factors. It aids in identifying individuals at risk of heart disease, screening for diabetes, guiding treatment decisions, and monitoring progress in managing these health conditions, ultimately contributing to improved cardiovascular and metabolic health.

We advise having your results reviewed by a licensed medical healthcare professional for proper interpretation of your results.

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