What to Expect from Your Blood Test in Hong Kong

Written By: Dr. Emma Warner

Blood tests are a vital tool in modern medicine, used to assess general health, diagnose a wide range of conditions, monitor disease progression, and evaluate treatments' effectiveness. When preparing for a blood test in Hong Kong, having questions is understandable. Where to get a blood test in Hong Kong? What is the cost of a blood test in Hong Kong? The cost of a blood test in Hong Kong can vary depending on the type of test. Learn more about doing a blood test with this blog. 

Understanding Blood Tests 

Blood tests are standard medical tests that can provide a wide range of information about a person's health. They involve drawing blood, usually from a vein in your arm, and analysing it in a lab. Blood tests can be used to diagnose diseases, monitor conditions, evaluate organ function, and assess treatments' effectiveness. Some results might be available immediately; others may take several days. The blood tests are typically interpreted along with other information, such as symptoms, medical history, and test results.    

The Importance of Blood Tests 

Regular blood tests are significant for several reasons. They help in the early detection of various diseases, enabling timely intervention and treatment. Fasting is required for specific blood tests because food and drink can affect the levels of certain substances in your blood, such as sugars, fats, and iron, leading to inaccurate test results. You will be told if you need to fast before your blood test, and you will be given an early morning appointment to minimise any inconvenience. They can even assess your nutritional status, providing insights into vitamin or mineral deficiencies.  

Here's a closer look at why blood tests are so necessary: 

• Broad Health Assessment: A blood test can provide a general snapshot of your overall health. For instance, the Complete Blood Count (CBC) measures the quantity and quality of red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets. This can indicate overall health status, nutritional status, and potential infections or disorders. 
• Disease Diagnosis: Certain blood tests can be used to diagnose specific diseases. For example, measuring blood glucose levels can diagnose diabetes, a lipid profile can identify dyslipidemia (abnormal cholesterol levels), and blood cultures can identify bacteria or fungi in the blood, indicating a systemic infection or sepsis. 
• Monitoring Disease Progression: Blood tests can also monitor the progression of certain diseases. For individuals with chronic conditions like kidney disease or diabetes, regular blood tests can help track the disease's progression and how well the body is responding to treatment. 
• Evaluating Organ Function: Many blood tests evaluate how well specific organs, such as the heart, liver, kidneys, and thyroid, work. For example, tests for liver enzymes can indicate liver damage and tests for creatinine and urea can assess kidney function. 
• Guiding Treatment Plans: Blood tests can help doctors decide on, monitor, and adjust treatment plans. For instance, the INR (international normalised ratio) test monitors patients taking warfarin, a blood-thinning medication, to ensure they are on the correct dose. 
• Screening for Health Risks: Some blood tests can screen for risk factors for certain diseases. The lipid panel, which measures levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, can predict the risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
   

The Different Types of Blood Tests in Hong Kong

MCV Blood Test

The MCV (Mean Corpuscular Volume) blood test measures the average size of your red blood cells. It is commonly used to help diagnose types of anaemia. A lower-than-average MCV indicates microcytic anaemia, often due to iron deficiency. At the same time, a higher MCV can suggest macrocytic anaemia, which might be caused by vitamin B12 or folate deficiency.

RDW Blood Test

The RDW (Red Cell Distribution Width) blood test determines the variation in the size of your red blood cells. It is typically used with the MCV test to help diagnose the cause of anaemia. A higher RDW value indicates a more significant variation in size, which can be associated with various health conditions, including vitamin deficiency and bone marrow disorders.

RFT Blood Test

The RFT (Renal Function Test) is crucial for assessing kidney health. It measures blood levels of substances such as urea, creatinine, and certain electrolytes. This test helps monitor kidney function and can detect signs of kidney disease or monitor its progression.

MPV Blood Test

The MPV (Mean Platelet Volume) blood test measures the average size of platelets in your blood and can provide insights into platelet production in your bone marrow. An increased MPV may be associated with various medical conditions, including inflammatory disorders, while a decreased MPV could indicate bone marrow depression or chronic inflammatory conditions.

Where to Get a Blood Test in Hong Kong  

You can get a blood test in Hong Kong in several places, including private clinics and private and public hospitals.   

Preparing for Your Blood Test   

Preparation for a blood test can vary depending on the type of test. Some tests may require you to fast for a certain period, while others might need you to refrain from taking specific medications. We provide clear instructions before your test and are available to answer any questions.  

Interpreting Your Blood Test Results 

Blood test results typically come in a lab report with numerical values. These values are generally compared to a reference range, representing healthy individuals' normal range. Many factors can influence blood test results, including diet, physical activity, medications, and stress. Interpreting blood test results can be complex, requiring a deep understanding of medicine. At OT&P, our doctor takes the time to explain your results to you, helping you understand your health better. Informed patients are better equipped to take charge of their health.  

What OT&P Offers

Regular blood tests are a vital component of maintaining good health. They are simple, quick, and provide a wealth of information about your body. OT&P Healthcare offers a comprehensive body check and screening package which includes blood testing services. We strive to provide a comfortable experience for our patients, from the initial consultation to the delivery of results.   

References

1. Happy Hong Konger. Blood Test In Hong Kong: Where To Get Tested? 24 Oct 2023 Retrieved from https://www.happyhongkonger.com/where-to-get-blood-tests-hong-kong/  

1. Bowtie. Blood Test: What can be identified? Results, Pricing & FAQs. 24 Oct 2023 Retrieved from  https://www.bowtie.com.hk/blog/en/blood-test-check/