Proactive Health: The Power of the Chem-8 Blood Test at St. Luke's

Blood tests are essential to monitoring health, yet they are often overlooked. One important test is the Chemistry-8 (Chem-8), available at St. Luke's Medical Center. This test assesses how your body processes substances, evaluates kidney function, and measures cholesterol levels. More than just a routine check, this test provides valuable insights into your overall well-being.

Think of your body as a finely tuned machine, with the heart circulating blood, the kidneys filtering waste, and the metabolism maintaining energy balance. However, the signs may not be immediately noticeable when something goes wrong. Conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, and heart issues can develop silently over time. The Chem-8 test offers a safe and reliable way to detect potential health concerns early, allowing for timely intervention before they become serious.

This test measures glucose levels, crucial for detecting diabetes or prediabetes. It evaluates creatinine and blood urea nitrogen (BUN) to determine how effectively your kidneys filter toxins. It also checks uric acid levels, which can lead to painful gout attacks if elevated. Additionally, the test assesses cholesterol levels, which are significant contributors to heart disease. It measures total cholesterol, LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides—all vital for cardiovascular health. High levels of LDL and triglycerides can clog arteries and increase the risk of stroke, while a low HDL count may leave your heart vulnerable.

Adults over 40 should include the Chem-8 test in their routine health screenings. Those with a family history of diabetes, kidney disease, or heart conditions should prioritize it even more. This test serves as a crucial reality check if your lifestyle includes poor diet, lack of exercise, or high stress. Patients managing chronic conditions like hypertension or diabetes can have peace of mind knowing that ongoing monitoring helps them stay informed about their risk factors and take proactive steps to manage their health.

Prevention is always better than cure. A simple blood test today can help you avoid complications in the future.

Institute of Pathology

St. Luke’s Medical Center

279 E. Rodriquez Sr. Ave. Quezon City, Philippines 1112

Telephone: +63-2-8723-0101 ext. 5423