Blood sample collection options

You can choose your preferred collection method when you checkout

Finger prick kit (FREE)

You can do this test at home without the need for a doctor. We'll send you everything you need to collect your sample and post it back to us. And it's all included in the cost. We've put together a video that covers the process, making it easy to check and track your health from home.

Home nurse appointment (+£60)

We'll arrange for a medical professional to visit your home and collect your sample. This is great if you're unsure on how it all works or have trouble collecting a sample. No need to book a doctor's appointment or visit a clinic, we'll send you everything you need to collect a sample and post it back to our labs.

Visit a partner clinic (+£45)

Once you've ordered your test, look out for an email from our phlebotomy partners containing information and a link to book your appointment. We'll send you everything the clinic will need to complete the sample and post it back to our labs.

Organise a nurse myself (FREE)

If none of the above options work for you, you can arrange your own medical professional to collect your sample. There is no additional charge for this. Once you've ordered your test, we'll send you everything you and your chosen medical professional will need to collect a sample and post it back to our labs.

Still unsure how it works? You can find more information on collection methods and the service we provide in our 'How it Works' section.

How does it work?

A Hand holding a lancet that is held up to a finger on the other hand

1. Collect your blood sample

It takes 5 minutes to collect a small sample of blood from your finger tip. Post it back to our labs using the Tracked-24 envelope included in your kit.

Heart health scores

2. View your results

Your will receive your Results within 2 working days in the Forth app, along with the optional doctors comment and detailed report.

Metabolic health scores

3. Make improvements

The detailed report makes it easy to identify areas that need improving, make changes and track your progress.

What gets tested?

5 Biomarkers

Additional biomarkers can be added by personalising this test.

What are biomarkers?

Biomarkers are specific compounds we can detect in your blood sample that reflect different things about your health. Your test will tell you your levels for each of the above biomarkers, and whether they are in a normal range.

About flexible subscriptions

How does a subscription work?

When you purchase this test subscription plan, we will automatically send you another test kit in a few months. Don't worry - you have full control over when this will be, and you can change/cancel it anytime.

When you first purchase this test, you can choose your subscription options in the checkout. We do this, because we recommend taking multiple tests over time to track how your biomarkers change. You'll be charged per test kit (rather than monthly, for example).

Why subscribe to multiple tests?

One test will show you what areas you need to focus on, continued testing will help you learn how your training, diet and lifestyle is impacting your health.

How often should I test?

We recommend a follow up test 3 months after your first test, followed by a test every 6 months depending on your results, but its up to you!

Can I change what's tested in future tests?

Yes, you can tailor/customise subsequent tests (via your app) to focus on just the areas that need improving.

Google pay

Shop now. Pay over time with Klarna

Klarna available at checkout.

Klarna's Pay in 3 / Pay in 30 days are unregulated credit agreements. Borrowing more than you can afford or paying late may negatively impact your financial status and ability to obtain credit. 18+, UK residents only. Subject to status. Ts&Cs and late fees apply.

Forth home blood test kit with yellow tube
Cholesterol Blood Test - Results at your fingertips
Hand holding a lancet up to a finger on the other hand
Cholesterol Blood Test - Track you results
Cholesterol Blood test - Compare yourself with others
Analysed by
NHS Lab
Tracked 24
delivery
Personalised
GP advice
Finger prick or venous collection

Cholesterol Home Test Kit

Trustpilot 4 stars

Results in 2 working days

5 Biomarkers

Check your cholesterol levels with our at-home test kit. This test measures your total cholesterol alongside your good (HDL) and bad (LDL) cholesterol levels, giving you a complete picture of your cardiovascular risk. It also includes triglycerides, another important marker for heart disease.

Analysed by
NHS Lab
Tracked 24
delivery
Finger prick or venous collection

£ 41

Mastercard Visa Stripe Apple pay Google pay

What gets tested?

5 Biomarkers

Blood sample collection options

How does it work?

When do I take the test?

Collect your blood sample within 3 hours of waking and before food.

How to video

Certified for quality & security

ISO Icons MDR CE

1 Million+

results delivered

As seen in

As seen in

What this test measures

5 Biomarkers

Total Cholesterol

Total cholesterol is a value made up of the different cholesterol components - HDL, LDL and triglycerides. It’s not just your total cholesterol that’s important, as it’s possible to have a healthy total cholesterol number but an unhealthy balance of the different types of cholesterol.

LDL

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is known as bad cholesterol because it can transport more cholesterol around the body than needed, leading to a build up on the walls of arteries. The higher the levels of LDL the higher the risk of developing heart disease.

HDL

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is known as 'good cholesterol' as it picks up excess cholesterol in your blood and transports it to your liver for removal. The higher your levels of HDL the lower the risk of developing heart disease.

HDL Ratio

The total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio is used to assess the balance of cholesterol in the blood. The lower the ratio the lower the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. For women, low levels of oestradiol can raise the cholesterol ratio increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Triglycerides

Triglyceride is the main form of fat found within our bodies. It is important for maintaining energy and provides the fuel for muscles to work. When you eat, excess calories which your body doesn't need are converted into triglycerides. High levels can increase the risk of heart disease.

Total Cholesterol

Total cholesterol is a value made up of the different cholesterol components - HDL, LDL and triglycerides. It’s not just your total cholesterol that’s important, as it’s possible to have a healthy total cholesterol number but an unhealthy balance of the different types of cholesterol.

LDL

LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is known as bad cholesterol because it can transport more cholesterol around the body than needed, leading to a build up on the walls of arteries. The higher the levels of LDL the higher the risk of developing heart disease.

HDL

HDL (high-density lipoprotein) is known as 'good cholesterol' as it picks up excess cholesterol in your blood and transports it to your liver for removal. The higher your levels of HDL the lower the risk of developing heart disease.

HDL Ratio

The total cholesterol to high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio is used to assess the balance of cholesterol in the blood. The lower the ratio the lower the risk of developing cardiovascular disease. For women, low levels of oestradiol can raise the cholesterol ratio increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease. 

Triglycerides

Triglyceride is the main form of fat found within our bodies. It is important for maintaining energy and provides the fuel for muscles to work. When you eat, excess calories which your body doesn't need are converted into triglycerides. High levels can increase the risk of heart disease.

Home vial icon

How to check cholesterol at home

You can check your cholesterol levels in just a few minutes with our at-home fingerprick kit. You prick the tip of a finger to collect a small blood sample. Use the pre-paid return postage label to send your sample to our accredited labs for analysis. Our team of doctors will review your results and can give you advice on how to improve your cholesterol levels.

Vial-Info

What is a cholesterol blood test?

A cholesterol blood test, also known as a lipid panel or lipid profile, measures the levels of different types of cholesterol and fats in the blood. Our test includes:

  • Total Cholesterol: The overall amount of cholesterol in the blood.
  • Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL) Cholesterol: Often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, high levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries.
  • High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Cholesterol: Known as “good” cholesterol, it helps remove LDL cholesterol from the bloodstream.
  • Triglycerides: A type of fat found in the blood, high levels can increase the risk of heart disease.

This test helps assess the risk of cardiovascular disease and can help guide treatment plans to manage cholesterol levels.

Heart icon

Preparing for your test

It’s important you’re well-hydrated before you collect your blood sample. This will help with blood flow which will make it quicker and easier to complete the test. We recommend you complete the test within 3 hours of waking and before you eat.

The test includes alcohol wipes which should be used to wipe the fingertip/s you’re drawing blood from to prevent contamination.

Question

Who is a cholesterol test for?

Anyone can do a cholesterol test at home to check heart health, but you should check your cholesterol levels if you;

  • Have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
  • Are overweight or obese
  • Drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes
  • Have an inactive lifestyle

Cholesterol Blood Test, recommended by our doctors

"Our cholesterol blood test assesses your risk of heart disease by measuring the levels of good and bad cholesterol (LDL and HDL) and how they relate to each other - called the ratio. Knowing your cholesterol levels helps you make dietary and lifestyle adjustments, reducing the risk of heart-related issues and promoting a healthier, longer life."

Dr Thom Phillips

Dr Thom Phillips

Clinical lead

How our Cholesterol Blood Test works

Getting the insights you need to improve your health has never been easier.

A Hand holding a lancet that is held up to a finger on the other hand

1. Collect your blood sample

It takes 5 minutes to collect a small sample of blood from your finger tip. Post it back to our labs using the Tracked-24 envelope included in your kit.

Heart health scores

2. View your results

Your will receive your Results within 2 working days in the Forth app, along with the optional doctors comment and detailed report.

Metabolic health scores

3. Make improvements

The detailed report makes it easy to identify areas that need improving, make changes and track your progress.

What's included in this test?

Yellow Tube

1x Yellow Tube

Lancets

3x Lancets

Cleansing wipes

1x Cleansing wipes

Plasters

Plasters

Alcohol swabs

2x Alcohol swabs

Return pouch

1x Return pouch

Tracked 24 return envelope

1x Tracked 24 return envelope

Lab request form

1x Lab request form

Blood sample kit

Results within 2 working days

Tracked 24 delivery & return

Secure health dashboard

NHS lab analysis

Doctor reviewed results

- Health scores calculated

Close

Frequently asked questions

This is what our customers ask us most about this test. For more information, try our help centre.

What causes high cholesterol?

The main causes of high cholesterol in the UK are age, diet, lack of exercise and genetics – with around 40% of a person’s serum cholesterol levels being genetically driven.

High serum cholesterol, or hypercholesterolemia, is a really common problem amongst UK adults. In some individuals a gene causes very high levels of cholesterol (Familial Hypercholesterolemia), leading to increased frequency of strokes and heart attacks.

Other factors, such as smoking and excessive alcohol consumption, can also lead to high cholesterol.

Certain medical conditions, such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, and kidney diseases, can also influence cholesterol levels. Lastly, hormonal changes, as seen in conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and during menopause, may contribute to elevated cholesterol.

How can I lower my cholesterol levels?

Regular physical activity and a balanced diet are the most effective ways to reduce your risk of having high cholesterol.

The UK Department for health recommends that adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise each week.

Quitting smoking can also help to improve cholesterol levels. Similarly, limiting your alcohol intake can be helpful, too.

If lifestyle changes aren’t working, medication may be an option for you. Chat to your GP about the best options for you.

What foods cause high cholesterol?

Foods that are rich in saturated fats, these include red meat, full-fat dairy products, and trans fats in processed and fried foods can all cause high cholesterol levels.

Make sure to include plenty of sources of omega-3 fatty acids, such as fatty fish (salmon, mackerel), flaxseeds, and walnuts, in your diet. Eat more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, which are high in soluble fibre which can help lower LDL cholesterol.

Who is a cholesterol test for?

Anyone can do a cholesterol test at home to check heart health, but you should check your cholesterol levels if you;

  • Have a family history of high cholesterol or heart disease
  • Are overweight or obese
  • Drink alcohol or smoke cigarettes
  • Have an inactive lifestyle

How soon will the test arrive?

If you order your test before midday on a Monday to Friday then your kit will be dispatched
the same day.

All our kits are sent out via Royal Mail first class post, so it should be with you within 1-2
working days.

How secure is my data?

We have strict processes in place to ensure the protection of your data. Following GDPR the company also operates under tight legal rules about the sharing of data which ensures that data is only shared if it is crucial to the delivery of our service. For example, our doctors see customer results at the time of review, however, after review, access to results is withdrawn.

Learn more about your data security.

Can I have someone take my blood for me?

Yes. We offer two options if you do not want to do our finger prick test. The first is a home appointment where a nurse comes to your home to take a blood sample. The second is to visit a Phlebotomy clinic near you that offers a blood sample service.

A blood sample will be taken from your vein and we will provide you with everything you need to give to the nurse to allow them to take the sample.

The nurse will give you the blood sample to return to us using the pre-paid envelope provided.

Does a doctor review my results?

We have a team of doctors and nurses who look at all results and will comment on any results that are outside of the normal range for your age.

Can I download the results to share with my GP?

Yes, you can download your results from your health dashboard as a PDF to share with your GP.

Learn how to export your results.

We are dedicated to supporting you on improving your health

Go to help center
Customer service
Trustpilot Stars

What customers say about our Cholesterol Blood Test

Cholesterol Home Test Kit