Test Guide
Best Blood Test for Heart Health (UK)
Cardiovascular disease is the UK's biggest cause of death, and most of it builds silently for years before any symptom appears. A heart-focused blood test surfaces the key risk markers early. This guide explains what to test, how often, and which Chxhealth panels are designed around cardiovascular risk.
Markers that matter for heart health
Total cholesterol, broken down into HDL (the protective cholesterol) and LDL (the cholesterol most associated with cardiovascular risk).
Triglycerides: Another blood fat, particularly responsive to sugar, refined carbs and alcohol intake.
Total cholesterol to HDL ratio: One of the strongest single predictors of cardiovascular risk. Lower is better.
HbA1c: Long-term blood sugar. Raised HbA1c is an independent cardiovascular risk factor.
High sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP): Low-grade inflammation marker linked to cardiovascular risk.
Blood pressure is not measured by blood test but is a critical complementary measurement.
Who should test
Adults with a family history of heart disease or early cardiovascular events, anyone over 40 wanting a baseline, smokers, people with raised blood pressure or diabetes, and anyone making lifestyle changes that affect cardiovascular risk (diet, weight loss, exercise).
Testing tips
Fast for 10 to 12 hours, water only, for the most accurate triglyceride reading.
Avoid alcohol for at least 24 to 48 hours before testing. Alcohol acutely raises triglycerides.
Avoid strenuous exercise for 24 hours.
Best Chxhealth panels for this
The Chxhealth panels below are designed for the markers discussed above. Each comes with a plain English PDF report, lab analysis by Randox (UKAS, ISO 15189), and the phlebotomy fee included in the price.
Heart Health
Comprehensive cardiovascular panel including lipid profile, glucose, inflammation and metabolic markers.
Lipid Profile
Focused lipid panel: total cholesterol, HDL, LDL, triglycerides and ratio.
Lipids and HbA1c
Combines lipid profile with HbA1c for a wider cardiometabolic view.
Advanced GP2
A broader general health panel that includes heart-relevant markers alongside other organ systems.
Related biomarker guides
Read more about the specific markers discussed in this guide:
FAQs
What cholesterol level is healthy?
UK guidance suggests total cholesterol below 5.0 mmol/L, HDL above 1.0 mmol/L for men and 1.2 mmol/L for women, LDL below 3.0 mmol/L, and a total cholesterol to HDL ratio below 4. Read more in our cholesterol glossary entry.
Do I need to fast for a heart health test?
Yes. Fast for 10 to 12 hours, water only, for accurate triglycerides and the full lipid profile.
How often should I retest?
Annually for general monitoring, or every 3 to 6 months if you are actively making lifestyle changes or starting medication.
Will a blood test tell me my heart attack risk?
It contributes to the picture. Formal cardiovascular risk calculation (such as QRISK3) combines biomarker results with blood pressure, age, smoking status, family history and other factors. Chxhealth is a biomarker and genetic data provider. We do not diagnose, treat or prescribe. Our service supports your wellbeing journey alongside your healthcare professional.
About this guide. Educational content for general awareness. Chxhealth is a biomarker and genetic data provider. We do not diagnose, treat or prescribe. Our service supports your wellbeing journey alongside your healthcare professional. For medical advice about your health or results, please speak to a qualified clinician.