Apolipoprotein A1
This test measures Apolipoprotein A1, the main protein in HDL cholesterol. It helps assess cardiovascular protection and heart risk.
Turnaround time
1-2 days
Biomarkers count
1
Book your test
Choose Service Type
Professional phlebotomist comes to you
+ £{{ home_visit_fee }}
Visit our clinic for your test
{{ clinic_visit_fee > 0 ? '+ £' + clinic_visit_fee : 'Free' }}
Home Visit Details
Home visits require at least 24 hours notice.
Select a clinic: Sorting by distance…
{{ clinic.full_address }}
{{ selectedClinic.full_address }}
Select a date
Select an hour
Available time slots: {{ timeSlots.length}}
Details about Apolipoprotein A1
The Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) Blood Test measures ApoA1, the main protein component of HDL (“good”) cholesterol. It is an important marker for cardiovascular risk assessment, helping evaluate how effectively cholesterol is removed from the bloodstream. Testing is performed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory, with an optional GP consultation.
What is an Apolipoprotein A1 Blood Test?
Apolipoprotein A1 (ApoA1) is the primary protein found in high-density lipoproteins (HDL). HDL plays a protective role by transporting excess cholesterol away from blood vessels to the liver for removal—a process known as reverse cholesterol transport.
Unlike HDL cholesterol concentration alone, ApoA1 reflects the number and functionality of HDL particles, making it a more precise indicator of cardiovascular protection. Low ApoA1 levels are associated with increased risk of atherosclerosis, heart attack, and stroke, even when standard cholesterol levels appear normal.
The ApoA1 test is often used alongside:
- Apolipoprotein B (ApoB)
- Lipid profile (cholesterol and triglycerides)
to provide a more accurate assessment of heart disease risk.
Benefits of the Apolipoprotein A1 Test
- Assesses Protective HDL Function
Measures the key protein responsible for cholesterol removal. - Improves Cardiovascular Risk Stratification
More informative than HDL cholesterol alone. - Identifies Hidden Heart Risk
Detects risk even when standard lipid tests are normal. - Supports Personalised Prevention Plans
Helps guide lifestyle or treatment decisions. - Useful in Metabolic & Cardiovascular Screening
Valuable in diabetes, obesity, and metabolic syndrome. - Simple & Affordable Blood Test
Cost-effective marker for heart health assessment. - Optional GP Consultation for Interpretation
Results reviewed with a GP for tailored advice.
Why Do I Need an Apolipoprotein A1 Test?
You may benefit from an ApoA1 test if you:
- Have a family history of heart disease
- Have diabetes or metabolic syndrome
- Have borderline or conflicting cholesterol results
- Want a more accurate cardiovascular risk assessment
- Are monitoring lipid-lowering therapy
Situations where ApoA1 is especially useful:
- Normal HDL cholesterol but ongoing cardiovascular risk
- Comprehensive heart health screening
- Advanced lipid profiling
Because cardiovascular disease can develop silently, ApoA1 testing supports early risk identification.
How the Test Works
In-Clinic Testing at London Blood Tests
- Book Your Appointment
- Online or phone booking
- No fasting required (unless combined with other lipid tests)
- Pre-Test Review
- Inform the clinician of medications or lipid therapy.
- Sample Collection
- Venous blood sample collected by a trained phlebotomist
- Takes 5–10 minutes
- Laboratory Analysis
- Performed in a UKAS-accredited laboratory
- Quality Control
- Results validated before release
- Results Delivery
- Results typically available within 1–2 business days
- Optional GP Consultation
- Review results and cardiovascular risk factors
At-Home Blood Draw (Home or Hotel Phlebotomy – UK-Wide)
- Book a Phlebotomist Visit
- Convenient home or hotel blood draw
- Professional Sample Collection
- Conducted by a certified phlebotomist
- Secure Transport
- Sample couriered same day
- Laboratory Testing
- Identical analysis to clinic testing
- Results & Follow-Up
- Results delivered online, GP review optional
Your Apolipoprotein A1 Results – Explained
ApoA1 results are reported in g/L.
Typical UK reference guidance:
- Men: ~ 1.0 – 1.6 g/L
- Women: ~ 1.1 – 1.8 g/L
Interpretation:
- Low ApoA1: reduced HDL protection, higher cardiovascular risk
- Normal ApoA1: healthy HDL function
- High ApoA1: generally protective and favourable
ApoA1 is often interpreted together with ApoB, providing the ApoB:ApoA1 ratio, a strong predictor of cardiovascular risk.
How It Works
Simple steps to get your results
Book Online
Choose your test online and book in seconds. Select your preferred clinic location or home visit option.
Visit or Test at Home
Attend one of our UK or London clinics, arrange a home nurse visit, or use a finger-prick kit where available.
Get Your Results
Your sample is analysed by accredited UK laboratories, with secure results delivered directly to you.
Take control of your health with London Blood Tests
WhatsApp UsHow to Prepare for Your Test
Follow these guidelines for accurate results
Sample Timing
Where possible, attend your blood test between 7am and 12pm. Please wait until any short-term illness or infection has fully resolved before testing. Avoid intense exercise for 24–48 hours beforehand, as this can affect certain markers.
Fasting & Hydration
Fasting is not always required, but some tests may recommend it. If fasting is advised, avoid food for 8–12 hours before your appointment and drink water only. Stay well hydrated, as this helps with sample collection and accuracy.
Medications & Supplements
Continue prescribed medications unless advised otherwise by your clinician. Avoid vitamin, mineral, or biotin supplements for at least 24–48 hours before your test, as these can interfere with results. If you are unsure about any medication or supplement, please let us know before your appointment.
Hormones & Menstrual Cycle
For hormone-related tests, timing within your menstrual cycle may be important. If relevant, follow any specific guidance provided on your test page.
If you have any questions or special circumstances, our team is happy to advise before your appointment.