Lipid Profile (Fat Metabolism)

The lipid profile is the cornerstone test for cardiovascular risk assessment. Rather than a single cholesterol figure, it reports total cholesterol alongside the protective HDL fraction, the atherogenic LDL fraction and triglycerides, allowing a more meaningful estimate of the balance between cardiovascular-protective and cardiovascular-harmful blood fats. Persistently elevated LDL and triglycerides, or a low HDL, are associated with the gradual narrowing and stiffening of arteries. MZ-Biochem offers this panel on a self-pay basis so it can be repeated to monitor the effect of diet, exercise or prescribed therapy without needing a fresh referral each time. Accurate results require a 12-hour fast, as triglycerides in particular rise sharply after eating. Results should be interpreted together with other risk factors (blood pressure, smoking, family history) by a physician.