Cardiovascular RiskScreening
High-resolution analysis of lipid profiles, inflammatory markers, and arterial health indicators.
Understanding Cardiovascular Risk
Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of death in the UK — yet it is also the most preventable of the major killers. The disease process, atherosclerosis, begins decades before any symptom: cholesterol-carrying particles accumulate in artery walls, inflammation sets in, and plaque quietly builds. Which is why cardiology increasingly emphasises risk assessment in the silent years, when intervention is easiest and most effective.
Standard cholesterol tests are a starting point, but they miss important dimensions of risk. Around half of heart attacks occur in people with "normal" cholesterol. Modern risk assessment adds particle counts (Apolipoprotein B), the largely genetic Lipoprotein(a) — raised in about one in five people, most of whom have never been tested — and inflammation markers such as high-sensitivity CRP.
The practical value is substantial: every element of cardiovascular risk revealed by these tests is either directly treatable (cholesterol, blood sugar, inflammation via lifestyle) or, in the case of Lp(a), justifies managing everything else more aggressively. Knowing your numbers in your forties can genuinely change your trajectory in your sixties and beyond.
Risk Indicators
- High blood pressure history
- Family history of heart disease
- High stress lifestyle
- Shortness of breath
Expert Care by Luciana
Our experienced registered nurse performs gentle blood draws with complete discretion. Your results are explained in a clear written report.
Diagnostic Path
Identifying clinical markers associated with cardiovascular risk requires a high-resolution laboratory profile. Below are the recommended diagnostic assessments specifically calibrated for this concern.
Our Advanced Cardiovascular Risk Screening measures the full modern panel: complete lipid profile, ApoA1 and ApoB with ratio, Lipoprotein(a), high-sensitivity CRP and the plaque-enzyme marker Lp-PLA2 — plus blood pressure and a formal cardiovascular risk score. The Platinum Full Body MOTs include the cardiac strain marker NT-proBNP within a comprehensive 60+ marker screen, ideal if you want heart markers in full-body context.
When to See Your GP Urgently
Screening is for people without acute symptoms. If any of the following apply, please seek medical care first:
- Chest pain, pressure or tightness — call 999
- Sudden breathlessness, or breathlessness lying flat — urgent medical review
- Palpitations with dizziness or fainting — see your GP urgently
- Pain in the jaw, arm or back with exertion — call 999
Frequently Asked Questions
I feel fine — why check my heart risk?
Because atherosclerosis is symptomless until it is advanced. The first symptom of heart disease is, in too many cases, a heart attack. Risk factors identified early — raised ApoB, Lp(a), blood pressure, HbA1c — are all manageable, and management started early is dramatically more effective.
What is Lipoprotein(a) and should I test it?
Lp(a) is an inherited cholesterol particle that independently raises heart attack and stroke risk. Levels are about 90% genetic and stable through life, so European cardiology guidelines now recommend everyone test it at least once. It is not part of standard NHS cholesterol checks.
Will these results be useful to my GP?
Very. Your written report presents each marker with its reference range and clinical context — precisely the information a GP needs when considering whether statins, blood pressure treatment or further assessment such as a calcium score is appropriate.
How is this different from an NHS Health Check?
The NHS Health Check (every five years from 40) covers total cholesterol, blood pressure and a diabetes check. Our screening adds particle analysis, Lp(a), inflammation and plaque markers — a substantially deeper level of cardiovascular characterisation.
Related Reading
Advanced Full Body MOT
Platinum Full Body MOT – Men
Platinum Full Body MOT – Women
Advanced Cardiovascular Risk Screening
Our South Kensington Clinic
You will receive a detailed written report from our registered nurse with all examination findings and lab results.
Not sure which test you need? We'll guide you.
Book a health screening without choosing a package — our registered nurse will call you before your visit to talk through your health goals and recommend the right tests for you. No obligation, and you only pay in clinic for what you choose.
Guided bookings open from two days ahead so our team can call you first. Outside clinic hours? Message us on WhatsApp and we’ll reply as soon as we open.
Clinical Testimonials.
"Luciana the Brazilian nurse is the best!! Very kind and super efficient, she managed to get my blood very smoothly and I had the best experience. I really recommend going there and asking for her."
"Great experience at South Kensington Medical and Dental Clinic. Kind staff, quick appointment, and very fast results. Everything was smooth and stress-free. Highly recommend!"
"I was really impressed by the whole experience at South Kensington MD. Booking and engagement were seamless, with no tedious manual forms to fill in. The staff were friendly and welcoming throughout."
