Advanced Well Man Blood Test Kit

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone, responsible for sex drive, muscle mass, fat distribution, bone density, red blood cell production, and sperm production. Testosterone naturally declines with age—typically by about 1-2% per year after age 30—but low testosterone can occur at any age. Symptoms of low testosterone include reduced libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, depressed mood, and difficulty concentrating. According to British Society for Sexual Medicine guidance, testosterone consistently below 12 nmol/L may warrant investigation, particularly with symptoms. Levels between 8-12 nmol/L with symptoms may be considered for treatment. Testosterone levels peak in the early morning, which is why early morning testing is recommended. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Total protein measures the combined amount of albumin and globulin proteins in your blood. These proteins perform numerous vital functions including maintaining fluid balance in blood vessels, transporting hormones and nutrients, fighting infections (immunoglobulins), and supporting tissue repair. Abnormal total protein can indicate liver disease (where albumin is made), kidney disease (where protein can be lost), malnutrition, chronic inflammation, or immune disorders. Total protein is a general screening marker—abnormalities prompt investigation into the specific protein components. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Albumin is the most abundant protein in your blood, made by the liver. It has several important functions: maintaining oncotic pressure (keeping fluid inside blood vessels rather than leaking into tissues), transporting hormones, drugs, and other substances, and supporting tissue growth and healing. Low albumin can indicate liver disease, kidney disease (where albumin leaks into urine), malnutrition, or chronic inflammation. Because albumin binds to hormones including testosterone, albumin levels affect how much 'free' hormone is available to your tissues. Dehydration can artificially elevate albumin by concentrating the blood. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Globulin is an umbrella term for a diverse group of proteins including immunoglobulins (antibodies), transport proteins, and enzymes. Globulin is calculated by subtracting albumin from total protein. Immunoglobulins are produced by your immune system to fight infections. Elevated globulin can indicate chronic infection, chronic inflammation, autoimmune conditions, or certain blood cancers (like multiple myeloma). Low globulin can indicate immune deficiency or protein loss. The albumin/globulin ratio provides additional diagnostic information. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

TSH is produced by your pituitary gland to regulate thyroid hormone production. It works in a feedback loop—when thyroid hormones are low, TSH rises to stimulate more production; when thyroid hormones are high, TSH drops. This makes TSH the most sensitive marker for thyroid dysfunction. High TSH indicates hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid)—symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, constipation, and low mood. Low TSH indicates hyperthyroidism—symptoms include anxiety, weight loss, tremor, and heat intolerance. Thyroid problems can mimic many other conditions, making screening valuable. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Free T3 is the active form of thyroid hormone—it's the hormone that actually works in your cells to regulate metabolism, energy production, and many other functions. Most T3 is produced by conversion from T4 in your tissues. Free T3 measures the unbound, active portion. Some people have difficulty converting T4 to T3, which can cause persistent hypothyroid symptoms despite normal TSH and T4. Low T3 can also occur during illness (sick euthyroid syndrome) or with calorie restriction. Free T3 helps complete the picture of thyroid function, particularly when symptoms persist despite treatment. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Free T4 is the unbound, active portion of thyroxine—the main hormone your thyroid produces. T4 circulates in blood and is converted to the more active T3 in tissues as needed. Measuring Free T4 alongside TSH confirms and characterises thyroid dysfunction. High TSH with low Free T4 confirms overt hypothyroidism. High TSH with normal Free T4 is subclinical hypothyroidism—the thyroid is struggling but managing. Low TSH with high Free T4 confirms hyperthyroidism. Free T4 is what's commonly measured to monitor thyroid hormone replacement (levothyroxine) therapy. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Serum iron measures the amount of iron circulating in your blood, bound to the transport protein transferrin. Iron is essential for making haemoglobin (the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells), producing energy in your cells, and supporting immune function. Serum iron fluctuates considerably throughout the day and is affected by recent meals, so it's best interpreted alongside ferritin, TIBC, and transferrin saturation. Low iron causes fatigue, weakness, and shortness of breath. While iron deficiency is less common in men than women (men don't have menstrual blood loss), it can indicate gastrointestinal bleeding that warrants investigation. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

TIBC measures your blood's total capacity to bind and transport iron—it indirectly reflects your transferrin levels. When iron stores are low, your body produces more transferrin to maximise iron capture from your diet, so TIBC rises. When iron stores are adequate, less transferrin is needed and TIBC is normal or low. High TIBC with low iron and low ferritin is a classic pattern of iron deficiency. Low TIBC can occur with iron overload, chronic disease, or malnutrition. TIBC helps distinguish between different causes of abnormal iron levels. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Transferrin saturation indicates what percentage of your iron-carrying capacity is being used—calculated as (serum iron ÷ TIBC) × 100. Normal saturation is typically 20-50%. Low transferrin saturation (below 20%) indicates iron deficiency. Very high saturation (above 45-50%) is an important marker for iron overload, including hereditary haemochromatosis—a genetic condition more common in men where the body absorbs too much iron, which deposits in organs and causes damage over time. Men with haemochromatosis often remain undiagnosed until organ damage occurs. High transferrin saturation is often the earliest sign, making this an important screening marker. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Ferritin is the storage form of iron—it reflects how much iron you have in reserve. It's the most useful single marker for iron status. Low ferritin indicates depleted iron stores and can cause fatigue even before anaemia develops. In men, low ferritin is less common than in women but warrants investigation for blood loss (particularly gastrointestinal). Ferritin is also an acute phase reactant—it rises with inflammation, infection, and liver disease—which can mask iron deficiency. Very high ferritin (above 300-500 µg/L in men) warrants investigation for iron overload (haemochromatosis) or other causes. Interpret ferritin alongside hs-CRP and transferrin saturation for the full picture. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Bilirubin is a yellow pigment produced when red blood cells break down. It's processed by the liver, stored in the gallbladder, and excreted in bile. Bilirubin gives bruises their yellowish colour and is responsible for jaundice (yellow skin and eyes) when levels are very high. Elevated bilirubin can indicate liver disease, bile duct obstruction, or excessive red blood cell breakdown. Mildly elevated bilirubin is common in Gilbert's syndrome—a harmless genetic condition affecting about 5% of the population where the liver processes bilirubin more slowly. Gilbert's typically causes no symptoms and requires no treatment. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found mainly in the liver and bones, with smaller amounts in kidneys and intestines. Elevated ALP can indicate liver problems (particularly bile duct obstruction or liver disease), bone disorders (where bone turnover is increased), or both. ALP alone doesn't distinguish between liver and bone sources—this is where other liver markers (like GGT) help. ALP is naturally higher in children and adolescents (due to bone growth) and can rise slightly with age. Moderate elevation is common and often not serious, but marked elevation warrants investigation. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

ALT is an enzyme found predominantly in the liver. When liver cells are damaged or inflamed, ALT leaks into the bloodstream, making it a sensitive marker of liver injury. Elevated ALT can indicate fatty liver disease (very common, affecting up to 30% of adults), alcohol-related liver damage, viral hepatitis, medication effects, or other liver conditions. Because ALT is so specific to the liver, it's one of the most useful markers for detecting liver problems. Mild elevations are common and often related to lifestyle factors (alcohol, weight, diet). Persistent elevation warrants investigation. Intense exercise can temporarily elevate ALT, which is why resting before the test is recommended. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Gamma GT (gamma-glutamyl transferase, GGT) is a liver enzyme that's particularly sensitive to alcohol consumption and bile duct problems. GGT is elevated in approximately 75% of long-term heavy drinkers, making it a useful marker for alcohol-related liver effects. GGT also helps distinguish between liver and bone causes of elevated ALP—if ALP is high and GGT is normal, the source is more likely bone; if both are high, it's more likely liver. GGT can be elevated by many medications, obesity, and metabolic syndrome, not just alcohol. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Urea is a waste product created when your liver breaks down protein. It's transported in the blood to the kidneys, which filter it out and excrete it in urine. Measuring urea levels helps assess both liver function (where urea is made) and kidney function (where it's excreted). Elevated urea can indicate reduced kidney function, dehydration, high protein intake, or gastrointestinal bleeding. Low urea can occur with liver disease, low protein diet, or overhydration. Urea is interpreted alongside creatinine and eGFR for a complete picture of kidney health. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Creatinine is a waste product generated from normal muscle metabolism. It's produced at a fairly constant rate (proportional to muscle mass) and is filtered out by the kidneys. This makes creatinine a reliable marker of kidney function—when the kidneys aren't filtering effectively, creatinine builds up in the blood. Men typically have higher creatinine than women because they tend to have more muscle mass. Very muscular men may have elevated creatinine that reflects muscle mass rather than kidney problems. Elevated creatinine that represents true kidney dysfunction is a concern because kidney disease often has no symptoms until advanced. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

eGFR estimates how well your kidneys are filtering blood, calculated from your creatinine level, age, sex, and ethnicity. The glomeruli are tiny filters in your kidneys—eGFR estimates how much blood they're filtering per minute. Normal eGFR is above 90 mL/min. An eGFR of 60-89 may indicate mild kidney impairment; 30-59 indicates moderate impairment; below 30 is severe. Chronic kidney disease is often silent—many people have significantly reduced kidney function without knowing it. Risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, and certain medications. Early detection allows intervention to slow progression. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Cholesterol is an essential fat (lipid) that your body needs for building cell membranes and producing hormones including testosterone. Despite its bad reputation, cholesterol itself isn't harmful—problems arise when levels become imbalanced. Total cholesterol combines HDL ('good') and LDL ('bad') cholesterol. On its own, total cholesterol has limited value—you can have high total cholesterol driven by protective HDL (actually good), or normal total cholesterol with dangerously low HDL. The detailed breakdown in this panel shows the full picture. Generally, total cholesterol below 5 mmol/L is considered desirable for most adults. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is commonly called 'bad' cholesterol because when levels are too high, it can accumulate inside artery walls, forming plaques that narrow and stiffen the arteries (atherosclerosis). This process is a major contributor to heart attacks and strokes. LDL particles transport cholesterol from the liver to tissues, but excess LDL ends up deposited in blood vessel walls. Lifestyle factors that raise LDL include diets high in saturated fat, lack of exercise, smoking, and excess weight. Optimal LDL is below 3 mmol/L for most people, with lower targets for those at higher cardiovascular risk. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Non-HDL cholesterol is calculated by subtracting your HDL ('good') cholesterol from your total cholesterol. It includes all the potentially harmful cholesterol fractions—not just LDL, but also VLDL and other atherogenic lipoproteins. This makes non-HDL cholesterol a better predictor of cardiovascular risk than LDL alone because it captures all the cholesterol that can contribute to artery plaque formation. The target for non-HDL cholesterol is below 4 mmol/L for most adults. Non-HDL is particularly useful because it doesn't require fasting to measure accurately. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol is 'good' cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from your bloodstream and artery walls, transporting it back to the liver for disposal. Higher HDL levels are associated with lower cardiovascular risk. HDL acts as a protective scavenger, reducing the cholesterol available to form artery plaques. Regular exercise, moderate alcohol consumption, and healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, oily fish) can raise HDL. Levels above 1.0 mmol/L in men are considered desirable—the higher the better. Low HDL is an independent risk factor for heart disease. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

The cholesterol/HDL ratio is calculated by dividing your total cholesterol by your HDL cholesterol. It indicates what proportion of your total cholesterol is the protective HDL type. This ratio is used in cardiovascular risk calculators (like QRISK) because it provides insight beyond total cholesterol alone. A lower ratio is better—it means a higher proportion of your cholesterol is the protective HDL type. A ratio below 4 is generally considered optimal; above 6 indicates increased cardiovascular risk. This ratio can improve with lifestyle changes that raise HDL (exercise) and lower LDL (diet). Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Triglycerides are a type of fat that circulates in your blood. After eating, your body converts excess calories—whether from fat, carbohydrates, or protein—into triglycerides for storage in fat cells. Between meals, hormones release triglycerides from fat stores for energy. Elevated triglycerides are associated with increased cardiovascular risk, particularly when combined with low HDL cholesterol. High triglycerides often indicate metabolic issues related to excess calories, refined carbohydrates, alcohol, or conditions like diabetes and metabolic syndrome. Fasting triglycerides below 1.7 mmol/L are generally considered desirable. Triglycerides respond well to lifestyle changes—reducing alcohol, sugar, and refined carbohydrates while increasing exercise. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

HbA1c measures the percentage of haemoglobin with glucose attached, reflecting your average blood sugar control over the past 2-3 months. Unlike a fasting glucose test, HbA1c isn't affected by what you ate yesterday—it shows the bigger picture. An HbA1c below 42 mmol/mol is normal; 42-47 indicates prediabetes (increased risk of developing diabetes); 48 or above is diagnostic of diabetes. Diabetes is a significant health concern for men—it increases cardiovascular risk, and men with diabetes are three times more likely to experience erectile dysfunction. Uncontrolled diabetes damages blood vessels and nerves throughout the body. Catching prediabetes early gives you the opportunity to reverse it through lifestyle changes. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Folate (vitamin B9) is essential for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and cell division. Low folate causes fatigue and can cause macrocytic anaemia (large red blood cells). Folate deficiency can occur with poor dietary intake (folate is found in leafy greens, legumes, and fortified foods), alcohol excess (which impairs absorption and increases losses), and certain medications. Serum folate reflects recent dietary intake over days to weeks. Adequate folate is important for cardiovascular health—it helps break down homocysteine, an amino acid linked to heart disease risk when elevated. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Active B12 (holotranscobalamin) measures the portion of vitamin B12 actually available to your cells—more accurate than total B12. B12 is essential for red blood cell production, neurological function, and DNA synthesis. Deficiency causes fatigue, weakness, neurological symptoms (numbness, tingling, balance problems), cognitive impairment, and macrocytic anaemia. B12 deficiency is common in vegetarians and vegans, people over 60, those taking metformin or proton pump inhibitors, and people with pernicious anaemia. B12 deficiency can cause permanent neurological damage if untreated, making screening worthwhile. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Vitamin D is essential for bone health, muscle function, and immune function. It's produced by your skin when exposed to sunlight and obtained in small amounts from food. Vitamin D deficiency is extremely common in the UK—limited sun exposure, indoor lifestyles, and darker skin increase risk. Low vitamin D causes fatigue, muscle weakness and aches, bone pain, and impaired immunity. There's also evidence linking low vitamin D to low testosterone levels in men, depression, and increased cardiovascular risk. Levels above 50 nmol/L are generally considered adequate; above 75 nmol/L may be optimal. Most people in the UK would benefit from supplementation, particularly in winter. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Magnesium is an essential mineral involved in over 300 enzyme reactions in your body, including muscle and nerve function, blood sugar control, blood pressure regulation, and protein synthesis. It's found in green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, whole grains, and fish. Low magnesium can cause muscle cramps, fatigue, weakness, irregular heartbeat, and has been associated with cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and osteoporosis. Serum magnesium reflects only a fraction of total body magnesium (most is in bones and cells), so levels may appear normal even with marginal deficiency. Many people have suboptimal magnesium intake. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Haemoglobin is the iron-containing protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen from your lungs to every tissue in your body. Low haemoglobin (anaemia) causes fatigue, weakness, shortness of breath, and pale skin—your tissues aren't getting enough oxygen. In men, haemoglobin below approximately 130 g/L indicates anaemia. Causes include iron deficiency (which in men often indicates blood loss that needs investigation), B12 or folate deficiency, chronic disease, and bone marrow problems. High haemoglobin can occur with dehydration, smoking, living at high altitude, or conditions like polycythaemia. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Haematocrit measures what percentage of your blood volume is occupied by red blood cells. Normal haematocrit in men is roughly 40-50%. Low haematocrit indicates anaemia. High haematocrit (polycythaemia) can occur with dehydration, smoking, chronic lung disease, testosterone therapy, or certain bone marrow conditions. Very high haematocrit increases blood viscosity and cardiovascular risk—blood that's too 'thick' doesn't flow as well and is more prone to clotting. This is particularly relevant for men on testosterone replacement therapy, where monitoring haematocrit is important. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Red blood cell count measures the number of red blood cells per litre of blood. Red cells are produced in your bone marrow and live for about 120 days before being recycled. Low red cell count contributes to anaemia. High red cell count can occur with dehydration, smoking, testosterone therapy, or conditions like polycythaemia vera. The count, combined with haemoglobin and the red cell indices (MCV, MCH, MCHC), helps characterise any blood abnormality and point toward its cause. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

MCV measures the average size of your red blood cells. Normal MCV is approximately 80-100 fL. This helps classify anaemia and determine its cause. Low MCV (microcytic, small cells) indicates iron deficiency or thalassaemia. High MCV (macrocytic, large cells) suggests B12 or folate deficiency, alcohol excess, liver disease, or hypothyroidism. Normal MCV with low haemoglobin (normocytic anaemia) can indicate chronic disease, acute blood loss, or bone marrow problems. MCV is one of the most useful markers for directing further investigation when anaemia is found. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

MCH measures the average amount of haemoglobin in each red blood cell. Normal MCH is approximately 27-32 pg. MCH generally tracks with MCV—small cells have less haemoglobin, large cells have more. Low MCH (hypochromic cells) is seen in iron deficiency anaemia. High MCH occurs in B12 or folate deficiency. MCH confirms the pattern seen with MCV and helps classify the type of anaemia. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

MCHC measures the concentration of haemoglobin within red blood cells—how 'packed' with haemoglobin each cell is relative to its size. Normal MCHC is approximately 320-360 g/L. Low MCHC indicates hypochromic cells that appear pale—classic in iron deficiency. MCHC is rarely elevated but can occur in certain conditions like hereditary spherocytosis. MCHC adds another dimension to characterising your red cells and confirming the pattern of any anaemia. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

White blood cells are your immune system's defence force, fighting infections and responding to inflammation. Total white cell count measures all types combined. Elevated WBC typically indicates infection, inflammation, or stress response. Very high counts can indicate more serious conditions including leukaemia. Low WBC can increase infection susceptibility and may occur with certain viral infections, autoimmune conditions, or medications. The white cell differential (breakdown into neutrophils, lymphocytes, etc.) helps characterise any abnormality. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Neutrophils are the most abundant white blood cells, comprising 50-70% of the total. They're your first-line defence against bacterial infections—rapidly responding to engulf and destroy pathogens. Elevated neutrophils typically indicate bacterial infection or inflammation. Low neutrophils (neutropenia) significantly increase bacterial infection risk. The neutrophil count helps characterise any white cell abnormality and can indicate the type of infection or inflammation present. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Lymphocytes are white blood cells responsible for adaptive immunity—the targeted response to specific pathogens. They include B cells (which make antibodies), T cells (which kill infected cells and coordinate immune responses), and NK cells. Elevated lymphocytes often indicate viral infections—glandular fever (EBV) classically causes high lymphocytes. Chronic lymphocytic leukaemia also causes elevated lymphocytes. Low lymphocytes can occur with HIV infection, after viral infections, or with immunosuppressive conditions or medications. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Monocytes are large white blood cells that become macrophages when they migrate into tissues. Macrophages engulf and digest pathogens, dead cells, and debris. They're the cleanup crew of your immune system and contribute to inflammation—the heat and swelling you feel with an injury or infection is partly due to monocyte/macrophage activity. Elevated monocytes can indicate chronic infection, chronic inflammation, or certain blood disorders. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Eosinophils are white blood cells involved in allergic responses and parasitic infections. Elevated eosinophils commonly occur with allergies (hay fever, asthma, eczema), parasitic infections (relevant for travellers), certain drug reactions, and some autoimmune conditions. They're typically 1-4% of white blood cells. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Basophils are the rarest white blood cells, typically less than 1% of the total. They play a role in allergic reactions by releasing histamine and in inflammatory responses. Elevated basophils are uncommon but can occur with certain allergic conditions, chronic inflammation, and some blood disorders. They complete the white cell differential count. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

High-sensitivity CRP measures low levels of inflammation in your body. CRP is produced by the liver in response to inflammation anywhere in the body. The 'high-sensitivity' test detects subtle elevations relevant to chronic low-grade inflammation—not just the dramatic elevations seen with acute infection or injury. Chronic low-grade inflammation is associated with cardiovascular disease, metabolic syndrome, and numerous other conditions. Elevated hs-CRP (above 3 mg/L) is considered a cardiovascular risk factor. hs-CRP also helps interpret other results—for example, elevated hs-CRP can raise ferritin independently of iron stores. If you have an acute illness when you take this test, your CRP will be elevated due to the illness rather than reflecting your baseline. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Platelets are small cell fragments produced by your bone marrow that are essential for blood clotting. When you're injured, platelets rapidly gather at the wound site, swell, clump together, and form a sticky plug to stop bleeding. The normal range is 150-400 × 10⁹/L. Low platelets (thrombocytopenia) can cause easy bruising, prolonged bleeding, and petechiae (tiny red spots). High platelets (thrombocytosis) can occur with inflammation, infection, iron deficiency, or certain blood disorders. As part of a comprehensive health check, platelet count helps assess bone marrow function and identifies conditions that might otherwise go unnoticed. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.

Uric acid is a waste product from the breakdown of purines—compounds found naturally in the body and in certain foods like red meat, organ meats, shellfish, and beer. Normally, uric acid dissolves in the blood, passes through the kidneys, and is excreted in urine. When levels are too high, uric acid can form needle-like crystals that deposit in joints, causing the intensely painful inflammatory condition known as gout—which affects men far more commonly than women. High uric acid is also associated with metabolic syndrome, cardiovascular disease, and kidney stones. Lifestyle factors including diet, alcohol (especially beer), and obesity influence uric acid levels. Results outside the normal range may need a follow-up with your GP.