Ordering the Advanced Cholesterol Profile | Great Plains Labs
The Advanced Cholesterol Profile from Great Plains Labs gives a detailed look at cholesterol and related markers, helping to spot risks for heart and blood vessel problems early. This test checks not just total cholesterol, but also apolipoproteins, lipoprotein (a), and homocysteine, which can show hidden risks for heart attack or stroke that a basic cholesterol test might miss. Interestingly, high levels of lipoprotein (a) can increase the risk of heart disease even if other cholesterol numbers are normal.
Ordering this test can help you:
- Find out if you have hidden risks for heart disease that standard cholesterol tests may not show
- Track changes in cholesterol and related markers after starting a new diet or exercise plan
- See if your genetics may be affecting your cholesterol and heart risk
- Check for early signs of plaque buildup in your arteries
- Get a clearer picture of your risk for stroke, heart attack, and other blood vessel problems
Who Should Consider Advanced Lipid and Heart Risk Testing
People who have a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure, or who have noticed weight gain or fatigue, may benefit from this test. For example, someone who has been eating healthy and exercising but still has a family member who had a heart attack at a young age might want to know if their own risk is higher than expected.
Ordering this test may also be helpful if you:
- Have a parent or sibling who had a heart attack or stroke before age 55
- Have been told you have high cholesterol but want more details about your risk
- Are starting a new medication or supplement for cholesterol and want to track your progress
- Have diabetes or metabolic syndrome and need a more complete heart risk check
- Have unexplained fatigue, which can sometimes be linked to high homocysteine or cholesterol changes
This test can help you find out if you have early signs of artery plaque, high-risk cholesterol types, or genetic markers that could affect your risk for heart attack or stroke. Delaying this test could mean missing the chance to make changes before problems develop, especially if you have risk factors that are not obvious from basic cholesterol checks.
How to Prepare for Advanced Cholesterol and Heart Marker Testing
Fasting for 12-14 hours before your blood draw is needed for the most accurate results with this test. Always follow any instructions your doctor or healthcare provider gives you to make sure your sample is collected the right way and your results are as useful as possible.
Labs Included When Ordering Your Advanced Cholesterol Profile | Great Plains Labs
| Test Name | Reference Range | What This Marker Shows | Low and High Levels of This Marker |
|---|---|---|---|
| Total Cholesterol | 125-200 | Total cholesterol measures all cholesterol in your blood. It helps show your risk for heart disease and stroke when looked at with other markers. |
High levels mean a higher chance of artery plaque and heart problems.
Low levels mean possible hormone or nutrition issues. |
| Apolipoprotein A | 120-180 | Apolipoprotein A is the main protein in HDL, or “good” cholesterol. It helps clear cholesterol from your blood and protects your arteries. |
High levels mean your body is clearing cholesterol well.
Low levels mean a higher risk for heart disease. |
| Apolipoprotein B | 60-100 | Apolipoprotein B is found in LDL, or “bad” cholesterol. It shows how many particles can build up in your arteries and cause plaque. |
High levels mean a higher risk for artery plaque and heart attack.
Low levels mean a lower risk for heart and blood vessel problems. |
| Lipoprotein (a) | 0-30 | Lipoprotein (a) is a type of cholesterol that is mostly set by your genes. High levels can raise your risk for heart attack and stroke, even if other cholesterol numbers are normal. |
High levels mean a higher risk for early heart disease and blood clots.
Low levels mean a lower risk for these problems. |
| Homocysteine | 4-15 | Homocysteine is an amino acid. High levels can damage blood vessels and raise the risk for heart attack, stroke, and blood clots. |
High levels mean a higher chance of blood vessel damage and heart problems.
Low levels mean a lower risk for these issues. |
Reference ranges may change slightly as labs update their standards and methods.
Advanced Cholesterol Profile | Great Plains Labs FAQ
Is there Advanced Cholesterol Profile | Great Plains Labs testing near me?
This is a home test kit that you can collect locally, and you can check the draw location link at the top of the page for nearby options. Since tracking cholesterol and heart risk markers often needs regular follow-up, having a convenient collection site makes it easier to stay on top of your results.
How do I interpret the test results?
While your treating physician should always help you interpret your results, we also offer a one-on-one test results review with our clinical team to help you understand what your numbers mean and what steps you can take next.
What is the cost of the test?
The price you see for this test includes standard shipping to you and back to the lab, but draw fees may apply. Ordering this test is worth it if you want to catch hidden heart risks early and make changes that can help you get better faster.
How often should I retest?
Most people should repeat this test every 6-12 months, especially if they are making changes to their diet, exercise, or medication. Regular retesting helps you see if your efforts are working and if your risk for heart problems is going down.
How accurate is the test?
This test uses advanced immunoassay and enzymatic methods for each marker, with a specificity of 98% and sensitivity of 97%. TrueHealthLabs.com partners with CLIA-certified and CAP-certified laboratories to uphold rigorous testing standards for dependable results.
Important Notes
- This test can not be collected or mailed from New York State. Contact us with questions.
Medical Review Board
Reviewed by Jeff Donohue M.D. from Body Logic and Brady Hurst DC, CCCN. Written by True Health Lab’s team of editorial health contributors.
Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and not intended as medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.
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