What is the most accurate test for heart disease?

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of death worldwide.  Cases of serious illness and mortality related to heart disease are only expected to increase over time.  For a long time, cholesterol has been one of the key factors that need to be managed in the struggle to prevent heart disease.  Lately, there has been some debate over whether the old standards for measuring cholesterol may be outdated.  Traditionally, a standard lipid panel including total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides has been used to assess the risk of heart disease.  In the search for a more accurate way to screen for CVD risk Apolipoprotein B or Apo B has become a frontrunner.

What is Apolipoprotein B

Until recently, the common wisdom has been that there is a direct connection between the risk of heart disease and low-density lipoprotein (LDL) otherwise known as the “bad” cholesterol.  The higher a person’s LDL level, the greater their risk for CVD.  However, the risk from LDL is not always consistent.  Other factors such as LDL particle size and density also play a role.  In addition, there are other lipid particles including VLDL, IDL, and LPA that can also pose a risk to your health.  Studies have shown that there may not be as direct a correlation between LDL levels and heart disease as we initially thought.

Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) is a protein that helps to transport lipid particles throughout the body.  Every particle of the troublesome lipids contains a single Apo B protein.  Interestingly, Apo B is not found in HDL, the “good” cholesterol that contributes to a negative risk for CVD.  So, measuring Apo B in a person’s blood can accurately determine how much LDL, along with other lipids that contribute to heart disease, is present.  Studies on the efficacy of Apo B have led some in the medical community to recommend making Apo B testing the new standard in assessing CVD risk.

Is Apo B more accurate than LDL?

Recently, the relevance of Apo B has become clearer, but there is still debate on whether it should replace LDL and other markers as the go-to standard for determining the risk of heart disease.  Lowering LDL is still considered an important factor in improving heart health.  At present, Apo B testing is not going to replace the standard cholesterol test, but it’s recommended that people who are monitoring their cholesterol, especially those with a higher risk for CVD, consider checking their Apo B levels along with other cholesterol numbers.   Apo B is a valuable piece of information that can give you a better look at the overall state of your health.

Where can I get an Apo B Test near me?

While the importance of measuring Apo B is gaining prominence, many doctors do not currently include it in their testing protocol and some insurance carriers may not cover it.  Fortunately, Request A Test offers an easy affordable solution for those who want to order their own lab testing.  Our service works with over 4,000 labs across the US and anyone can order the testing they need without needing to see a doctor or go through their insurance.  Just visit us online or call our team to get an order set up at a patient service center near you.  Most testing sees results in just a few business days.  We offer the Apolipoprotein B test along with other tests for heart health and a variety of other categories.  Manage your health and order the most effective testing methods on your own initiative.  Visit Request A Test today online or call our team during business hours at 888-732-2348.