What tests are taken before treatment?
Before starting the assessment, we take a wide range of blood tests to ensure your treatment is as effective as possible.
We check blood sugar through fasting glucose and long-term blood sugar (HbA1c). It is common for blood sugar to be elevated in people with overweight, and most people with type 2 diabetes have overweight.
Glucose levels and HbA1c are used to assess the risk of diabetes. Normal fasting glucose is below 6.1 mmol/L. The diagnostic threshold for diabetes mellitus is two fasting glucose values above 7.0 mmol/L. An HbA1c between 42 and 48 mmol/mol is considered elevated. The threshold for diabetes is an HbA1c above 48 mmol/mol. With weight loss, blood sugar and HbA1c often decrease, which can reduce the risk of diabetes.
We also check blood lipids (cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and triglycerides). Elevated levels or an abnormal lipid profile increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. With weight loss, triglycerides and harmful LDL cholesterol may decrease.
We also assess electrolyte and calcium balance (potassium, sodium, and calcium), liver tests (GT and ALAT), and kidney function tests (creatinine and eGFR).
With weight loss, previously elevated liver values caused by fatty liver disease can often improve and normalize.
Metabolic disorders are very common. In Sweden, around one million people take thyroid hormone. A deficiency in thyroid hormone can lead to fatigue and sometimes weight gain. We check the pituitary hormone TSH and the metabolic hormone free T4 (thyroxine) to ensure levels are normal.
We also assess blood count values, including hemoglobin (Hb), red blood cell size (MCV, MCH), white blood cells (leukocytes), and platelets (thrombocytes). These tests are often taken together and referred to as a complete blood count. Elevated Hb levels are sometimes seen in overweight and sleep apnea. In blood disorders, iron deficiency, and bleeding, Hb levels decrease.
Iron deficiency is common, so we also check ferritin levels. We also assess whether you have deficiencies in other important vitamins such as B12 (cobalamin) and folate, which are important for blood formation and the nervous system.
Yazen also offers a home testing option for those who cannot or do not wish to have samples taken on site. You receive a test kit by mail and can collect the samples at home at your own pace. You then send the samples in for analysis.
Due to technical limitations, the home test cannot analyze as many values as comprehensive laboratory testing. The home test includes analysis of:
- Long-term blood sugar (HbA1c)
- Kidney values (creatinine and eGFR)
- Liver tests (ALAT and gamma-GT)
- Blood lipids (triglycerides, cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, and LDL/HDL ratio)
Although not all tests are included, the home test still provides an overview of key blood values.
To change the sampling location or to get more information about the home test, please contact your responsible doctor directly in the app. They will assist you based on your needs.
