What is an obesity test?
One of the most common lifestyle diseases, obesity, occurs due to prolonged consumption of high calories foods that are rich in fats and sugars and having a sedentary lifestyle. In the last few years, the consumption of packaged foods and sugary drinks has gone up exponentially and has resulted in obesity in not only adults but children also. People with obesity are more likely to develop several health problems like heart diseases including stroke, high cholesterol, type-2 diabetes, fatty liver diseases, kidney diseases, and even certain types of cancers. This is where an obesity test comes in. This test is designed to screen and diagnose the existence of obesity and classifying its degree in an individual. With the advancements in telemedicine and diagnostics, an obesity test is one of the most commonly done
lab tests at home.
Which tests are included in an obesity test?
An obesity profile test includes calculating your BMI, measurement of your waist, and the following tests to check for medical conditions that may be causing obesity: Glucose-Fasting Blood (FBS): It measures blood glucose levels to screen for pre-diabetes or diabetes. Glycosylated Haemoglobin: The test to evaluate the blood glucose levels in the last 2-3 months to assess predisposition to diabetes and risk factors for diabetics. Insulin Fasting: This is done to assess the levels of insulin in people diagnosed with diabetes, PCOD/PCOS, etc.
Lipid Profile: This test checks for risk of high cholesterol levels and heart diseases. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone: This test screens and diagnoses thyroid disorders. Cortisol: This test screens and diagnoses the risk of diseases like Addison and Cushing disease. Several add-on tests are also available in addition to an obesity test like: Testosterone Total test to check for fertility, menstrual issues, etc. Kidney function test to assess the functioning of the kidneys and screen for their diseases. Liver function test to screen and diagnose liver diseases. Vitamin screening to check for the levels of Vitamin D and B12 in your blood. T3, T4 tests to check for thyroid gland disorders.
Why do I need to get an obesity test done?
There are several reasons why an obesity profile test is recommended annually like: An annual obesity profile test measures the level of unhealthy weight that you may be carrying and the medical reasons behind them. Getting an obesity test done regularly helps assess your susceptibility to heart diseases, diabetes, etc., and seeking early treatment for them. If you are already undergoing a treatment/management plan for obesity, the obesity profile tests help in checking the efficacy of the treatment, and if corrective action is required. An early diagnosis of risk factors or diseases through an obesity test helps you in seeking an early treatment that helps in avoiding the ever-increasing medical costs. Since you can manage your obesity condition well, you can live a productive and stress-free life. The add-ons to obesity tests help in screening and diagnosing other conditions related to thyroid, kidneys, liver, etc.
When do I need to get an obesity test?
While it is recommended to get an obesity test done annually, your doctor may advise it if she/he sees the obvious physical symptoms of obesity in you. Other situations when it is required are: Your BMI is over 30 When the waist measurement is higher than 35 inches (women) and 40 inches (men). You have a family history of obesity. When you are over 60 years. You are pregnant. You suffer from hormonal disorders like thyroid. Your lifestyle choices do not include a healthy diet or exercise.
How do I prepare for an obesity test?
Since it is a simple blood test, not much preparation goes into an obesity test. But you should keep in mind these pointers: Your doctor may advice you not to eat/drink anything for 8-10 hours before the test. You should wear a full-sleeved shirt for the obesity blood test.
How does obesity test at home work?
With advancements in technology, obesity profile tests are easily available at home. This is the procedure that’s followed: You need to buy the relevant obesity profile test packs and schedule it at a convenient time. A WHO and DMLT trained phlebotomist will collect your samples from home. Your obesity blood test samples will be processed at a lab under the supervision of experienced doctors. You will receive your obesity blood test results within 24 hours of the test.
Are there any risks/ side effects of obesity test?
Since it is a simple blood test, there are not many side effects. However: Some people may feel fatigued or light-headed though this is rare. Travelling for an obesity blood test to a crowded clinic or lab may increase the risk of infections for the elderly and those with immunity disorders.
Why does my result mean?
This is how obesity tests are interpreted: S.no Indicator Healthy levels 1. BMI (body mass index) 18.5-24.9 2. Waist measurement Women < 35 inches Men < 40 inches