Lipids & Cardiovascular
Apolipoprotein A1
Lipids & Cardiovascular
Main protein in HDL. Reflects cardiovascular protective capacity.
VAT-exempt medical service
Apolipoprotein A1 (Apo A1) is a protein central to lipid metabolism and the main structural component of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol. Higher levels of Apo A1 are associated with better cardiovascular protection in healthy individuals. Through Wellth, you can order this accredited blood test from Swedish laboratories and gain a deeper understanding of your lipid health beyond standard cholesterol numbers.
Testing Apo A1 helps you identify cardiovascular risk factors before they become serious health problems. If your lifestyle, personal history, or family background suggests elevated cardiovascular risk -- such as chronic inflammation, high triglycerides, or high blood sugar -- an Apo A1 test provides important clinical insight. It is also useful for tracking how dietary adjustments, supplements, or treatments affect your protective cholesterol over time.
What a high value can mean
High Apo A1 levels are generally considered beneficial because Apo A1 is the key component of HDL cholesterol, the so-called good cholesterol. High levels are associated with a lower risk of cardiovascular disease. Factors that can raise Apo A1 include regular physical activity, weight loss, moderate alcohol consumption, statin use, and estrogen-related hormonal effects. High Apo A1 typically does not cause negative symptoms.
What a low value can mean
Low Apo A1 levels are linked to reduced HDL cholesterol and impaired cholesterol clearance from the body. When combined with high Apolipoprotein B, low Apo A1 significantly increases cardiovascular risk. Causes include chronic kidney disease, untreated diabetes, obesity, smoking, poor diet, and certain medications such as beta-blockers and diuretics. Genetic polymorphisms can also cause inherently low Apo A1 levels, leading to abnormal lipid profiles and accelerated atherosclerosis.
Avoid fatty foods and alcohol the day before the test. Always bring valid identification.
Order your test
Choose your test and pay online. Your lab referral is created straight away.
Give your sample
Visit any of our partner sampling locations. No appointment needed at most of them.
The lab analyses it
Your sample is analysed at an accredited Swedish laboratory.
Get your results
Your values appear in your account with reference ranges and an explanation of each marker.
Reference ranges vary by laboratory, but generally levels above 1.2 g/L for women and 1.1 g/L for men are considered desirable. Your results will include the specific reference range used by the accredited lab.
HDL cholesterol measures the cholesterol carried by HDL particles, whereas Apo A1 measures the protein on those particles. Apo A1 can provide additional insight into HDL function and cardiovascular protection.
Yes. Regular aerobic exercise, weight management, a diet rich in healthy fats such as omega-3 fatty acids, and smoking cessation have all been shown to raise Apo A1 levels.
Testing Apo A1 alongside Apolipoprotein B and standard lipid markers gives the most complete picture of cardiovascular risk. The Apo A1/Apo B ratio is considered one of the most accurate predictors of heart disease.