Blood Chemistry
What is it?
Our blood chemistry station measures total cholesterol, high density lipoprotein (HDL), low density lipoprotein (LDL), non-HDL c, triglycerides, and glucose. We provide feedback based on the individual’s results. The blood chemistry station is available at some events and is for adults only.
How is it measured?
A trained volunteer performs a finger stick of the participant to collect a very small amount of blood (40 microliters, which is less than 1/64th of a teaspoon!). The blood is collected using a small capillary tube and is immediately analyzed by placing a cassette containing the blood sample into a Cholestech machine (Alere via Whitmire Medical). The whole station takes about 20 minutes to complete, which includes time for measuring blood pressure, cleaning the finger, collecting the blood sample, analyzing the sample in the machine, and then providing consultation based on the individual’s results.
This station is available for the following audiences and takes approximately:
- Adults (English, Spanish, Chinese, Vietnamese and Korean) – Takes about 20 minutes (includes preparation, collection, 6 minute ready by machine, and consultation on results)
- Kids – Not available
How we determined the categories?
We use cutoffs from the American Heart Association.
Where to get more information…
The American Heart Association has a great page with more information on what to expect and what to do based on your results!
Research Bibliography
