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  • Can pregnant women have this test?
    Pregnant women can have most of these tests, but some reference ranges differ during pregnancy. Please inform us if you're pregnant or think you might be.
  • How often should I have a Full Body MOT?
    For healthy adults, an annual Full Body MOT is recommended. Those with existing health conditions or risk factors may benefit from more frequent testing as advised by their GP.
  • Will I receive a detailed report?
    Yes, you'll receive a comprehensive report explaining all your results with reference ranges and clear indications of what each marker means for your health.
  • Do you offer walk in service?
    Yes, we do offer walk in and you can also book online
  • What does the Full Body MOT test include?
    The test covers 14 comprehensive categories including physical measurements, blood sugar levels, cardiac markers, cholesterol profile, kidney and liver function, pancreatic enzymes, electrolytes, tumour markers, inflammation markers, vitamins, hormones, full blood count, and complete urine analysis.
  • What can kidney function tests reveal?
    Kidney function tests (creatinine, urea, uric acid, eGFR) assess how well your kidneys are filtering waste from your blood. Early detection of kidney problems is crucial for prevention.
  • What is a Full Body MOT Health Check?
    Our comprehensive MOT health check is designed to assess all the important health indicators with over 80 biomarkers. Like an MOT for your car, this test provides a complete assessment of your body's key systems to detect potential health issues early and monitor your overall wellbeing.
  • Can I bring someone with me?
    Yes, you're welcome to bring a friend or family member for support, especially if you're anxious about blood collection.
  • What if I need to cancel or reschedule?
    Please contact us as soon as possible if you need to change your appointment. We'll do our best to accommodate your needs.
  • How comprehensive is the cholesterol testing?
    We test HDL (good) cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, total cholesterol, and triglycerides, plus calculate important ratios that provide insight into your cardiovascular risk.
  • How does this compare to NHS health checks?
    Our Full Body MOT is far more comprehensive than standard NHS health checks, testing over 80 biomarkers compared to the basic screening typically offered.
  • How long does the appointment take?
    The entire appointment typically takes 15-20 minutes, including check-in, blood collection, and urine sample provision. For walk-in, add another 5 to 10 minutes for form completion.
  • What happens if my results are abnormal?
    Abnormal results may require follow-up consultation with your GP as they will have comprehensive understanding of your medical history.
  • Why is blood sugar and HbA1c testing important?
    These tests assess your diabetes risk and blood sugar control over the past 2-3 months. Early detection of diabetes or pre-diabetes allows for lifestyle changes that can prevent progression.
  • What should I wear for the test?
    Wear comfortable clothing with sleeves that can be easily rolled up for blood collection. You'll also need to provide a urine sample.
  • What do the cardiac markers tell us?
    The cardiac panel (including CK, CK-MB, Troponin, HBH, and LDH) helps assess heart muscle health and can detect recent heart damage or stress, even when symptoms aren't present.
  • Do I need to fast before the Full Body MOT?
    The test can be done either fasting or 6-8 hours after eating. However, for the most accurate results, particularly for glucose and lipid measurements, we recommend fasting for 8-10 hours before the test.
  • How many biomarkers are tested?
    Our Full Body MOT includes over 80 individual biomarkers, making it one of the most comprehensive health screening packages available.
  • Should I take my medications before the test?
    Yes, continue taking all prescribed medications as normal unless specifically advised otherwise by your GP. Please inform our staff of any medications you're taking.
  • Why are liver function tests important?
    The comprehensive liver panel (12 different markers) assesses liver health, detects liver damage, and monitors liver enzyme levels. The liver performs over 500 functions, making its health vital.
  • What does the physical check include?
    We measure your weight, height, calculate your BMI, check your blood pressure, and monitor your pulse rate. These basic measurements provide important baseline health information.
  • When will I get my results?
    Results are available the same day, allowing you to quickly understand your health status and take any necessary action.
  • Is this better than individual tests?
    Yes, comprehensive testing is more cost-effective and provides a complete picture of your health, allowing us to identify patterns and relationships between different body systems.
  • How much does the Full Body MOT cost?
    The test costs £210 with no additional phlebotomy fee. This represents excellent value for such a comprehensive health assessment.
  • Can I use this instead of seeing my GP?
    This test complements but doesn't replace regular GP care. It's excellent for health monitoring and early detection, but any concerning results should be discussed with your GP.
  • What if I have a family history of certain conditions?
    Family history is important context for interpreting your results. Please inform us of any relevant family medical history, as this helps us put your results in context.
  • Can I smoke or drink alcohol before the test?
    Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test and don't smoke for at least 2 hours beforehand, as these can affect certain measurements.
  • Why test vitamin levels?
    We check Vitamin D and B12 levels, as deficiencies are common and can cause fatigue, mood changes, bone problems, and neurological issues.
  • Can I exercise before the test?
    Avoid strenuous exercise 24 hours before your test, as this can affect certain biomarkers, particularly cardiac enzymes and muscle-related markers.
  • Is this test suitable for elderly patients?
    Yes, the Full Body MOT is particularly valuable for older adults as it provides comprehensive monitoring of age-related health changes.
  • What do tumour markers screen for?
    For men, we test PSA (prostate-specific antigen) to screen for prostate issues. For women, we test CEA (carcinoembryonic antigen) which can indicate various types of cancer.
  • What does the urine test check for?
    The comprehensive urine analysis includes 15 different parameters checking for kidney function, diabetes, infections, liver function, and other metabolic indicators.
  • Can I drink water before the test?
    Yes, please stay hydrated and drink plenty of water before your test. Proper hydration helps with blood collection and doesn't affect most test results.
  • How do I provide a urine sample?
    We'll provide a sterile container and clear instructions. A mid-stream sample is preferred for the most accurate results.
  • How long does it take to get sickle cell test results?
    You will get the results on the same day.
  • What happens if I have sickle cell trait?
    People with sickle cell trait usually live normal, healthy lives. However, you can pass the gene to your children, and under extreme conditions (severe dehydration, high altitude), you may experience complications.
  • What's the difference between sickle cell trait and sickle cell disease?
    Sickle cell trait (AS): You carry one sickle cell gene and one normal gene. You are generally healthy but can pass the gene to your children. Sickle cell disease (SS): You have two sickle cell genes, causing the full disease with symptoms like pain crises, organ damage, and shortened lifespan.
  • Why is pre-marriage sickle cell testing important?
    Pre-marriage testing allows couples to: Know their genetic compatibility Make informed family planning decisions Seek genetic counseling if both are carriers Plan for potential medical needs Avoid the emotional trauma of having affected children
  • How is sickle cell disease inherited?
    Sickle cell is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern. Both parents must carry the gene for children to have the disease: If both parents have sickle cell trait (AS), each child has a 25% chance of having sickle cell disease (SS) If one parent has SS and the other is AA, all children will have AS (trait) If one parent has AS and the other is AA, each child has a 50% chance of having AS
  • Can I live a normal life with sickle cell trait?
    Yes, people with sickle cell trait typically live completely normal lives. The main consideration is family planning and ensuring your partner knows your status before having children.
  • What should I do if I test positive for sickle cell trait?
    Inform family members who may also be carriers Ensure your partner gets tested Seek genetic counseling if planning children Stay hydrated during physical activity Inform healthcare providers of your status
  • Should I be concerned if my partner and I both have sickle cell trait?
    Yes, this requires serious consideration and genetic counselling. There's a 25% chance each pregnancy could result in a child with sickle cell disease, which significantly impacts quality of life and lifespan.
  • How accurate is HPLC testing for sickle cell?
    HPLC testing is over 99.5% accurate and is considered the gold standard by medical organisations worldwide. It can detect even rare haemoglobin variants that other tests might miss.
  • When should I get tested for sickle cell?
    Ideally before marriage or when planning to have children. Many couples get tested during engagement or early marriage planning. If you're already pregnant, testing should be done as early as possible.
  • What is sickle cell disease?
    Sickle cell disease is an inherited blood disorder where red blood cells become misshapen (sickle-shaped) and break down, causing pain, organ damage, and reduced oxygen delivery throughout the body. It's caused by a genetic mutation in the haemoglobin gene.
  • How do I tell my family about my sickle cell status?
    Be honest and educational. Explain that sickle cell trait doesn't affect your health but is important genetic information. Encourage relatives to get tested, especially if they're planning families.
  • How common is sickle cell disease?
    Sickle cell trait affects approximately 1 in 100 people of African or Caribbean descent in the UK, and varies by ethnic background. The disease is most common in people of African, Caribbean, Mediterranean, Middle Eastern, and South Asian ancestry.
  • Can sickle cell disease be cured?
    Currently, bone marrow transplant is the only potential cure, but it's risky and not suitable for everyone. Most treatment focusses on managing symptoms and preventing complications.
  • Can two people with sickle cell trait have healthy children?
    Yes, but there's significant risk. When both parents have sickle cell trait (AS): 25% chance of AA (completely normal) 50% chance of AS (sickle cell trait) 25% chance of SS (sickle cell disease)
  • What support is available for couples dealing with sickle cell genetic risks?
    NHS Genetic Counselling & Screening Services 1. NHS Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia (SCT) Screening Programme Offers antenatal and newborn screening to identify carriers and provide counselling for at-risk couples. Preconception testing is also available through GPs or local screening centres. w: https://www.sicklecellsociety.org/screeningprogramme/ 2. Manchester Sickle Cell & Thalassaemia Centre (MSCTC) Provides person-centred care, including antenatal/prenatal genetic counselling, screening, and support for individuals and families. a: 352 Oxford Road, Manchester, M13 9NL t: 0161 529 6605 e: mft.manchestersicklecell@nhs.net w: https://www.manchesterlco.org/services/citywide-adult-community-services/msctc/ 3. South East London Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Counselling Services Offers counselling to pregnant women and biological fathers who are carriers, ensuring understanding and support. a: Mary Sheridan Centre, 5 Dugard Way, London, SE11 4TH t: 020 3049 5993 e: gst-tr.referralstosickle@nhs.net w: https://www.evelinalondon.nhs.uk/our-services/community/community-sickle-cell/counselling.aspx 4. UCLH Community Sickle Cell and Thalassaemia Services Provides comprehensive care, including genetic counselling, psychological support, and community outreach. a: 17a Hornsey Street, Holloway, London, N7 8GG t: 020 3316 8853 / 8854 e: ncl.redcellteam@nhs.net w: https://www.uclh.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/patient-information-pages/community-sickle-cell-and-thalassaemia-services National Charities & Support Organisations 1. Sickle Cell Society Provides information, support groups, and a helpline for individuals and families affected by sickle cell. t: Monday & Tuesday: 07842 245 980 Wednesday: 020 8961 7795 Thursday & Friday: 07809 736 089 e: info@sicklecellsociety.org w:https://www.sicklecellsociety.org/helpline/ 2. Sicklekan A platform raising awareness and providing support for sickle cell patients and their families through storytelling and partnerships. w: https://sicklekan.com/ 3. Genetic Alliance UK A national charity supporting individuals with genetic conditions, offering information and advocacy. w: https://geneticalliance.org.uk/
  • Can prenatal testing detect sickle cell disease in unborn babies?
    Yes, prenatal testing through amniocentesis or chorionic villus sampling (CVS) can detect sickle cell disease in unborn babies, typically performed between 10-20 weeks of pregnancy. Our clinic does not offer this service and should discuss with your GP.
  • Can medications affect sickle cell test results?
    Most medications don't affect HPLC results for sickle cell testing. However, recent blood transfusions can temporarily alter results. Ideally, 6 months after transfusion before sickle cell testing.
  • What if both my partner and I test positive for sickle cell trait?
    You should seek genetic counselling to understand your options, which may include: Accepting the 25% risk per pregnancy Considering prenatal diagnosis during pregnancy Exploring assisted reproductive technologies Considering adoption Making informed decisions based on your values and circumstances
  • What's the difference between HPLC and other sickle cell tests?
    HPLC (High-Performance Liquid Chromatography): Gold standard, most accurate, detects all variants, provides exact percentages Electrophoresis: Older method, less precise, may miss some variants Solubility tests: Only detect sickle haemoglobin, can't distinguish trait from disease Rapid tests: Limited scope, often require confirmation
  • Do I need to fast before a sickle cell test?
    No, fasting is not required for sickle cell testing. It's a simple blood draw that can be done at any time of day.
  • What are the different sickle cell genotypes?
    AA: Normal haemoglobin (no sickle cell genes) AS: Sickle cell trait (carrier) SS: Sickle cell disease SC: Sickle-C disease (milder form) S-beta thalassaemia: Combination of sickle cell and thalassaemia genes
  • What facilities do you have?
    Wifi Parking Toilet
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