Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)

What is Apolipoprotein B?

Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) is a protein found in your blood that is the main transporter for certain fats and cholesterol around the body. Apolipoprotein B is the principal component of Low Density Lipoprotein (LDL). LDL is sometimes called the “bad cholesterol”, because high levels of it can build up on the walls of your arteries and form plaque which narrow your arteries and restrict blood flow.

Because each particle of LDL also contains one particle of Apolipoprotein B, by measuring Apolipoprotein B, we can get a direct measure and “count” of the amount of LDL cholesterol that is in your blood. This measure gives you a highly accurate indication of your cardiovascular risk for things like heart attack and stroke.

Why consider an Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) test?

Raised levels of Apolipoprotein B are directly linked to a condition called atherosclerosis. This is a condition where fatty materials stick to and build up on the linings of your arteries, raising your risk of experiencing a heart attack or a stroke.

If you are concerned about your cardiovascular health, and if you have any additional risk factors for heart problems, you should strongly consider getting an Apolipoprotein B test.

Risk factors can include:

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

• Diabetes

• A family history of cardiovascular issues

Our test may also be suitable if you have any lifestyle risks, including:

• Smoking

• High alcohol intake

• Sedentary or low physical activity level

• Unhealthy diet (high in fat and sugar)

Apolipoprotein B and cardiovascular risk

High levels of Apolipoprotein B increase your risk of heart disease, narrowing of the arteries heart attack and stroke.

A high Apolipoprotein B count indicates an elevated number of particles that will form plaques on the walls of your arteries. Apo B is a direct measure of cardiovascular risk, and many believe it to be a better measure than a standard lipid profile test.

How can my Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) be tested?

Our test requires you to provide a blood sample. Once we have collected your blood sample, we will then send it to our accredited laboratory for fast and efficient analysis.

What test will be run on my sample?

Our Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) test includes the following test:

• Apolipoprotein B. Elevated levels are directly associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease

How will I receive my test results?

After three working days of your samples arrival at our laboratory, your test results will be ready for you to view. Your confidential results can be viewed at any time by logging in to your secure patient area on our website. A member of our Patient Services team will contact you as soon as your results are available.

What should I do if my results are abnormal?

You should seek medical advice regarding lifestyle changes if you receive abnormal results. You can also be prescribed medications to lower your cholesterol. We can arrange a private consultation with one of our skilled doctors located throughout the country.