Beyond Basic Blood Tests

New, precise tests can identify health risks early, but consult doctors first to avoid overtesting

- Akshita Nanda

Mr Adrian Teo did not go for regular health screenings until his late 30s, when he experienced breathlessness and an unusually fast heartbeat after a run.

"I thought it might be heatstroke," recalls the 43-year-old, who works in administration. "But I was running at night and this was during the cool-down."

At the time, he was a regular runner and had completed a familiar 4km route around Bedok Reservoir.

Soon after this episode, he went for a full-body check-up. A blood test revealed that his cholesterol levels were unusually high.

"The doctor called me and said I had to take medicine," Mr Teo says. "I didn't even know what LDL or cholesterol build-up meant."

LDL or low-density lipoprotein is often referred to as "bad" cholesterol. It can lead to plaque build-up in the arteries and increase the risk of cardiac disease and stroke.

Mr Teo was started on a high dose of statins to manage his cholesterol. He began experiencing side effects such as muscle aches, low energy and fatigue.

Seeking a second opinion, he visited a polyclinic and was referred to Changi General Hospital (CGH).

A specialist recommended a second blood test, which revealed that, apart from high LDL, Mr Teo also had elevated levels of another molecule, Lipoprotein (a), or Lp(a).

Lp(a) differs from LDL and can also increase the risk of cardiac disease and stroke. It is managed differently.

Mr Teo is now seeing a specialist at CGH, and taking a lower dose of statins plus other medicines to lower his LDL and Lp(a). He no longer experiences side effects.

He advises people to take their health seriously.

"Before that episode of breathlessness, I didn't have any medical check-ups. I hope other people can go for blood tests earlier. If I had known about my condition earlier, I might have been able to take preventive action."