Conventional cholesterol tests are only partially successful in predicting the risk of heart diseases. According to the NCEP (National Cholesterol Education Program) guidelines, 50% of people who have a heart attack have normal cholesterol levels.
Cholesterol is carried throughout the body in little balls called lipoproteins. It is the lipoproteins, not the cholesterol in them, that leads to clogging of the arteries. Research has shown that there are different sizes of LDL (or Low Density Lipoprotein, commonly known as bad cholesterol) and HDL (or High Density Lipoprotein, commonly known as good cholesterol) particles and some are much more dangerous than others. A detailed Lipoprotein Particle Profile™ (LPP™) evaluates lipoprotein size and density, giving your doctor the information needed to make more effective treatment decisions to reduce your risk for heart disease and even a heart attack.
The test assigns each patient with:
CardioMetabolic Risk Assessment - an indication of your risk (Low, Moderate or High) for developing cardiovascular disease, including stroke and diabetes.
Type 2 Diabetes Risk Assessment - an estimate of your risk of developing Type 2 Diabetes by identifying metabolic abnormalities that may progress into diabetes.
The test is relevant for people who have been diagnosed with or have a family history of heart disease, high cholesterol or diabetes.