Also known as a full blood count or a blood cell count, a CBC test is a blood test that measures the different components of your blood cells.
An essential part of a routine exam or a medical inquiry, the test is an investigation into the functioning of our red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets.
When might the test be needed?
A CBC test might be required if your symptoms point to an infection or medical conditions like anemia, leukemia, or blood cancer.
It may also be carried out as part of a routine checkup, allowing the doctor to:
- Detect abnormalities in your blood that may be signs of disease.
- Diagnose or monitor many different disorders, conditions and infections.
- Evaluate your overall health.
- Rule out conditions, disorders and diseases.
- Monitor various blood diseases.
- Observe the side effects of prescriptions.
Does the test require any preparation or fasting?
No.
You can carry out your blood cell count at any time of the day, with or without refraining from food.
The only exception will be if you intend to carry out other tests besides your CBC test. In this case, your doctor is in the best position to advise on the preparation you may require.
Otherwise, when booking a test with us, we will furnish you with all the required information you might need for proper preparation for your test.
What is an average complete blood count, and when should I be worried?
The normal range for an adult’s complete blood count is listed below.
- Red blood cell (Hemoglobin & Hematocrit) normal range:
Hemoglobin normal range:
• Male (ages 15+): 13.0 – 17.0 g/dL
• Female (ages 15+): 11.5 – 15.5 g/dL
Hematocrit normal range:
• Male: 40 – 55%
• Female: 36 – 48%
2. Platelet Count normal range:
• Adult: 150,000 – 400,000/mL
3. White blood cell (WBC) normal range:
• Adult: 5,000-10,000/mL
However, remember that an abnormal blood cell count range does not always mean you have a medical condition that needs treatment. CBC test can rule out this condition easily.
Aside from medical conditions, diet, activity level, medicines, and lifestyle factors can affect your CBC result. Thus, taking into account your medical background and symptoms, your doctor will inform you of whether there is a need for further tests or treatment.
How can I carry out the test?
Please contact us to book an appointment or walk into any of our test centres for immediate testing.
You may also carry out your blood cell count under our health check packages for a more comprehensive health inquiry.
Note:
As a CBC test is a blood test, we can also provide a home sample collection at your location, and save you the time and stress of a visit to our centres.
If you’d like this option, please send us a WhatsApp message with your preferred test time and contact details, and we’d get back to you as soon as possible.
Till our next blog, stay healthy, and don’t forget to check out more of our blogs.