Lipids & Cardiovascular
Apolipoprotein B
Lipids & Cardiovascular
Better predictor of heart disease risk than LDL cholesterol alone.
VAT-exempt medical service
Apolipoprotein B (Apo B) is a protein involved in lipid metabolism that mirrors LDL cholesterol concentrations. Many researchers now consider Apo B, and particularly the Apo A1 to Apo B ratio, a more reliable predictor of cardiovascular disease than standard cholesterol tests. Wellth provides access to this advanced lipid marker through accredited Swedish laboratories, helping you assess your true atherogenic risk.
Apo B testing is essential for anyone who wants a precise picture of their cardiovascular risk. Each atherogenic lipoprotein particle carries exactly one Apo B molecule, so the Apo B count directly reflects the number of potentially harmful particles in your bloodstream. This makes it particularly valuable when triglycerides are elevated or when standard LDL calculations may be inaccurate. It is also useful for monitoring the effectiveness of lipid-lowering therapies.
What a high value can mean
High Apo B levels indicate a greater number of atherogenic lipoprotein particles circulating in the blood, which increases the risk of cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, and heart attack. Causes include a diet high in saturated fats, insulin resistance, diabetes, hypothyroidism, genetic disorders such as familial hypercholesterolaemia, and inflammatory processes affecting blood vessels. High Apo B may present with chest pain, shortness of breath, fatigue, high blood pressure, or yellowish cholesterol deposits under the skin (xanthomas).
What a low value can mean
Low Apo B is generally associated with lower cardiovascular risk. However, very low levels can result from conditions affecting lipoprotein production in the liver, such as cirrhosis, malnutrition, hyperthyroidism, or certain medications including estrogen and statins. Symptoms of very low Apo B may include fatigue, poor nutrient absorption, unexplained weight loss, and muscle weakness.
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.
Apo B counts the actual number of atherogenic particles rather than the amount of cholesterol they carry. This gives a more accurate picture of cardiovascular risk, especially when triglycerides are high or LDL particle sizes vary.
Optimal Apo B is generally below 0.9 g/L, and for high-risk individuals, below 0.7 g/L. Your healthcare provider will interpret your result alongside your full lipid profile and medical history.
Yes. Reducing saturated fat intake, increasing fibre, regular physical activity, and weight management can all lower Apo B. Medications such as statins are also highly effective.
If you are managing cardiovascular risk factors or taking lipid-lowering medication, testing every 3 to 6 months is advisable. For routine screening, annual testing is usually sufficient.