Cardiac Risk Markers Test: Costs, Purpose, Normal Range and Interpretation

A cardiac risk markers blood test measures different factors or indicators that can help in assessing cardiac diseases. It’s a combination of 6 tests that help in gauging an individual’s potential and probability of developing cardiovascular diseases or the condition/stage of an existing cardiovascular disease. 

Learn everything about the Cardiac Risk Markers Test, before you book lab test online. Understand the why, how, and what of this test.

What Does Cardiac Marker Test Measure?

A cardiac risk markers test comprises 6 different tests that measure different parameters of the body to check the functioning of your heart. The 6 cardiac risk markers test list includes the following: 

• High-sensitive CRP Test: This test measures the levels of C-reactive protein in the body. This protein indicates the inflammations in your body and can help you assess the chances of a heart attack or stroke. This test is different from the standard CRP test that checks for different kinds of cardiovascular diseases by measuring protein¹. 
• Apolipoprotein A1: This test measures levels of apolipoprotein A, which is a component of HDL, or "good" cholesterol. Apolipoprotein A1 plays a crucial role in the reverse cholesterol transport process, where HDL helps remove LDL ("bad") cholesterol from the bloodstream, potentially reducing cardiovascular disease risk.
• Apolipoprotein B/A1 Ratio Test: This test measures both apolipoprotein A and B in a ratio to eliminate the chances of cardiovascular diseases among individuals. This form of test is generally prescribed to individuals having a history of cardiovascular diseases². 
• Apolipoprotein B Test: It is a blood test that provides insights into your risk for cardiovascular diseases, including heart and blood vessel issues. Apolipoprotein B is a protein involved in lipid metabolism and serves as a primary component of low-density lipoprotein (LDL)—commonly known as “bad” cholesterol. Essentially, Apo B attaches to the negative types of cholesterol responsible for plaque buildup in your blood vessels. This plaque can lead to damage and heart disease³. 
• Lipoprotein A test: The lipoprotein (a) test gauges the concentration of lipoprotein (a) present in your bloodstream, with elevated levels indicating a potentially heightened risk of heart disease and stroke⁴. The concentration of this compound in your body is highly genetic, and hence, the test is administered to people having a history of cardiac arrests, blockages, or other diseases. 
• Homocysteine Test: Homocysteine is an amino acid that is used to make proteins in your body. This test checks for the levels of this amino acid. In general, homocysteine levels are very low in the human body. Elevated levels of homocysteine can harm the inner linings of arteries and elevate the likelihood of blood clot formation, thereby heightening the risk of heart attack, stroke, and various cardiovascular and blood vessel conditions⁵. 

How To Prepare For Cardiac Risk Markers Test?

The steps below help you ensure that your Cardiac Risk Markers Test provides the most accurate information about your health.

•  Medication guidelines: Tell your healthcare provider about all the drugs, supplements or herbal remedies you are taking, as some substances may affect test results. Follow any specific instructions regarding drug adjustment before testing.

•  Contact to doctor: Share your entire medical history with existing conditions or symptoms to help explain test results.

What Happens During Cardiac Risk Markers Testing?

A Cardiac Risk Markers Test only takes a few minutes.

• As per the scheduled time of the blood test, a Lab Technician who usually takes blood samples will arrive.
• A thin needle will be used to draw blood from your arm’s vein.
• The needle might cause a mild pinch and some discomfort.
• The lab technician then fills a collection tube with blood and then removes the needle from the skin.
• They place a small bandage on the arm

Please note: There might be slight pain or bruising at the spot of insertion, but most of the symptoms go away quickly.

Should you book blood test online to check your health condition or go to the nearest clinic and get it done by a medical professional?  Let's Find Out

Can I Take a Cardiac Risk Markers Test At Home?

Yes, the Cardiac Risk Markers Test can be taken at home. HealthcareOnTime's at-home lab testing service, in association with thyrocare, provides a convenient and efficient way to get blood testing done from the comfort of your own home without the need for a doctor's visit or a trip to a lab. It's important to note that it's always a good idea to consult with an expert healthcare provider about any queries you may have about your test results.

How Much Does Cardiac Risk Markers Test Cost?

The Cardiac Risk Markers Test price varies significantly depending on many factors:

• Location: The Cardiac Risk Markers Test prices in India may vary depending on the city or the region in which the test is conducted. For example, in Bangalore or Mumbai, it might be expensive as compared to small towns.  
• Type of facility centres:  The Cardiac Risk Markers Test charge also varies between private hospitals, government hospitals, and diagnostic centres. Cost is lower in government hospitals as compared to private ones.
• Healthcare centres: Diagnostic centres, laboratories and hospitals may have different Cardiac Risk Markers Test prices. It depends upon the benefits and reputation of the healthcare centre. 
• Insurance Coverage: Individuals with health insurance can cover partial or all costs depending on their policy coverage and network providers.
• Additional services: Additional services such as home sample collection, express test results, or additional charges for special management may be paid, which contributes to the overall Cardiac Risk Markers Test price.

Generally, the Cardiac Risk Markers Test cost in India ranges from Rs. 900 to Rs. 2500. By opting for HealthcareOnTime lab test at-home facilities, you can access the Cardiac Risk Markers Test at the cost of INR 1500.

You received your cardiac risk markers blood test results but still need help determining if they fall under the normal range. Read this section to know if your results range between the cardiac risk markers test normal range.

What Does Cardiac Risk Markers Test Indicate? 

The thyrocare cardiac Risk Markers test analyses various cardiac biomarkers present in your blood.

These markers include proteins, hormones, and enzymes that provide valuable insights into your heart health and potential cardiovascular risks.

• Low Risk: If your cardiac markers fall within the optimal range.
• Moderate Risk: When there are mild deviations from the ideal levels.
• High Risk: Elevated levels of specific markers may indicate an increased risk of heart disease or cardiovascular events.

What is a Cardiac Risk Markers Test Normal Range?

The following are the normal ranges for cardiac risk markers test: 

CRP Levels Results

Lipoprotein Levels Test

Homocysteine Levels Test

Apolipoprotein A Test

Apolipoprotein B

Apolipoprotein B/A1 Ratio Test 

What Medical Conditions Can Cause High Cardiac Risk Levels?

The following conditions can lead to high cardiac risk levels

• High blood pressure
• High levels of bad cholesterol
• Diabetes
• Obesity  

How to Reduce the Cardiac Risk Levels? 

Low cardiac levels indicate lesser chances of developing cardiovascular diseases. Such conditions can be maintained through healthy habits like

• Maintaining a healthy and balanced diet
• Exercising regularly 
• Avoiding alcohol and tobacco consumption
• Reducing fat intake

Furthermore, to ensure your risk levels stay low, you must:

• Check your cholesterol levels every 4-6 years. If you’ve been diagnosed with high cholesterol levels or have a family history of the condition, you should get checked more often as per the advice of your doctor.
• Control Blood Pressure
• Manage your Diabetes by regularly checking your blood sugar levels.