Redcliffe Labs said nearly two-thirds of its diagnostic bookings are preventive, showing a growing focus on health checks before symptoms appear. However, the most commonly booked tests are still mainly routine tests, including complete blood count (CBC), lipid profile, kidney function test (KFT), liver function test (LFT) and HbA1c.
These tests can provide important information about a person’s overall health. However, cardiovascular risk depends on several factors, including blood pressure, blood sugar, cholesterol levels, weight, lifestyle and family history.
Redcliffe Labs analysed data from more than 2.4 lakh people over six months and found abnormal results across several cardiovascular markers in nearly one in two individuals. Among men above 26, 48% recorded abnormal results, increasing to nearly 52% among men above 40. The company said these results indicate abnormal test findings and do not confirm cardiovascular disease.
Heart Disease Risk
The World Health Organization identifies high blood pressure, high blood glucose, abnormal blood lipids and overweight or obesity as major metabolic risk factors for cardiovascular disease. Smoking, unhealthy diet and physical inactivity are also important risk factors.
A routine lipid profile measures cholesterol and triglycerides, but it may not provide the complete picture for every person. The 2026 ACC/AHA dyslipidemia guideline recommends measuring lipoprotein(a), or Lp(a), at least once to help identify people with increased cardiovascular risk.
Other markers, including ApoB and hs-CRP, can provide additional information in selected cases. Tests such as hs-Troponin I and NT-proBNP have more specific clinical uses and are generally used when there is a relevant clinical reason.
Preventive Heart Health
Dr Sonal Saxena, Director – Lab Operations at Redcliffe Labs, said cardiovascular risk should be assessed based on an individual’s overall risk profile rather than relying on a single cholesterol result.
The findings also highlight the difference between getting tested and understanding the results. A routine health report can identify important risk factors, but further assessment may be required depending on a person’s age, symptoms, medical history, family history and other risk factors.
With World Heart Day approaching, the focus is shifting towards earlier identification and management of cardiovascular risk. For patients, preventive testing is most useful when abnormal findings are discussed with a healthcare professional and followed by appropriate action.
