How to Check Cholesterol Level in Singapore?

How to Check Cholesterol Levels in Singapore

Maintaining a healthy cholesterol level is vital for preventing cardiovascular diseases and ensuring overall well-being. In Singapore, where heart disease remains a leading cause of death, regular cholesterol checks are an essential preventive measure. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of how to check your cholesterol levels, the available testing options, and what to expect during the process.

Understanding Cholesterol

Cholesterol is a fatty substance produced by the liver and found in certain foods. It plays a crucial role in hormone production, vitamin D synthesis, and cell membrane formation. However, excessive cholesterol can lead to the formation of plaques in arteries, increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke. Cholesterol is typically divided into three types:

1. Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL): Often referred to as “bad cholesterol,” high levels of LDL can lead to arterial blockages.
2. High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL): Known as “good cholesterol,” HDL helps remove LDL from the bloodstream.
3. Triglycerides: A type of fat that, when elevated, can contribute to atherosclerosis.

A lipid profile test measures these components, providing a complete picture of your cholesterol levels.

Why Check Cholesterol Levels?

Regular cholesterol checks are essential for the following reasons:

• Early Detection of Health Issues: High cholesterol often has no symptoms, making regular tests crucial for early intervention.
• Risk Assessment: Knowing your cholesterol levels can help determine your risk of developing cardiovascular diseases.
• Monitoring Progress: For individuals on medication or lifestyle changes, tests track progress and effectiveness.

According to the Singapore Ministry of Health, adults aged 40 and above should check their cholesterol levels every three years. However, individuals with risk factors such as obesity, diabetes, or a family history of heart disease may require more frequent testing.

Where to Get Cholesterol Tests in Singapore

There are several options for cholesterol testing in Singapore, ranging from public healthcare institutions to private clinics and home testing kits:

1. Polyclinics

Public polyclinics are a cost-effective option for cholesterol testing. Subsidised rates are available for Singaporean citizens and permanent residents. The process involves:

• Booking an appointment through the HealthHub app or website.
• A blood sample is taken, typically after fasting for 8-12 hours.
• Results are usually available within a week and can be accessed via HealthHub.

2. Private Clinics and Hospitals

Private healthcare providers offer quicker services and shorter waiting times. Some popular options include:

• Raffles Medical Group
• Mount Elizabeth Hospitals
• Parkway Shenton Clinics

These facilities provide detailed consultations and follow-up care. Prices range from SGD 50 to SGD 150, depending on the comprehensiveness of the test.

3. Health Screening Packages

Many healthcare providers in Singapore offer health screening packages that include cholesterol tests. These packages often assess other vital health markers such as blood sugar levels and body mass index (BMI). Popular screening centres include:

• Fullerton Health
• Healthway Medical Group

4. Home Testing Kits

For added convenience, home testing kits are available at pharmacies and online. These kits allow you to collect a blood sample using a finger prick and receive results within minutes or via an app. However, they may not be as accurate as lab-based tests and are best used for preliminary screening.

How to Prepare for a Cholesterol Test

Fasting is often required before a cholesterol test to ensure accurate results. Follow these steps to prepare:

1. Fasting: Avoid food and beverages (except water) for 8-12 hours before the test.
2. Medication: Inform your doctor about any medications or supplements you are taking, as they may affect results.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments: Avoid alcohol and high-fat meals 24 hours prior to testing.
4. Hydration: Drink plenty of water to ease blood sample collection.

Interpreting Cholesterol Test Results

Cholesterol levels are measured in millimoles per litre (mmol/L). Here is a breakdown of the optimal ranges:

Results outside these ranges indicate the need for lifestyle changes or medical intervention. A healthcare professional will provide personalised recommendations based on your test results and overall health profile.

Next Steps After Testing

1. Lifestyle Modifications

For borderline or high cholesterol levels, adopting a heart-healthy lifestyle can significantly improve your lipid profile. Key steps include:

• Diet: Incorporate more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins while reducing saturated fats and trans fats.
• Exercise: Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity weekly.
• Weight Management: Achieve and maintain a healthy BMI.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking reduces HDL levels and damages arterial walls.

2. Supplements

In addition to lifestyle changes, some individuals may benefit from taking supplements like Lactobact LDL Control. These supplements contain probiotics designed to lower LDL cholesterol naturally by improving gut health and lipid metabolism. Consult your healthcare provider to determine if these supplements are suitable for you.

Lactobact LDL-CONTROL contains the probiotic bacterial strain Lactobacillus plantarum LPLDL®. This strain positively affects all parameters of a healthy cardiovascular system and fat metabolism. Each capsule contains 4 billion colony-forming units (CFUs) of Lactobacillus plantarum LPLDL®.

• Usage: Lactobact LDL-CONTROL is used in secondary hypercholesterolemia to lower elevated LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol, and blood pressure while increasing HDL cholesterol.
• Mechanism: The probiotic reduces the reverse transport of bile acid to the liver, forcing the liver to produce new bile acid using cholesterol from the blood. This results in a natural reduction of blood cholesterol levels.
• According to a scientific study on cholesterol lowering methods, you can experience results after 12 weeks:
  • ↓ Total cholesterol: 36.7%
  • ↑ HDL cholesterol: 4.5%
  • ↓ LDL cholesterol: 13.9%
  • ↓ Systolic blood pressure: 5.1%

Take one capsule daily with a main meal and sufficient liquid.

3. Medications

If lifestyle changes are insufficient, doctors may prescribe medications such as statins to lower LDL cholesterol. Regular follow-ups are necessary to monitor effectiveness and side effects.

4. Regular Monitoring

Individuals with high cholesterol should undergo periodic testing as recommended by their doctor to track progress and adjust treatment plans accordingly.

Government Initiatives and Subsidies

The Singapore government actively promotes preventive healthcare through initiatives like the Screen for Life (SFL) programme. Under SFL, eligible Singaporeans can access subsidised cholesterol screening and consultations. This initiative aims to encourage early detection and management of chronic conditions, including high cholesterol.

Conclusion

Regular cholesterol checks are a cornerstone of preventive healthcare in Singapore. With various testing options available, including polyclinics, private clinics, health screening packages, and home kits, it is easier than ever to monitor your cholesterol levels. Early detection, coupled with lifestyle modifications and medical intervention when necessary, can significantly reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases. Prioritise your heart health by scheduling a cholesterol test today and take proactive steps towards a healthier future.