This test measures Lipoprotein(a), apolipoprotein A1, apolipoprotein B and the ApoB/apoA1 ratio alongside a standard cholesterol panel: HDL cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, non-HDL cholesterol, triglycerides, and the ratios calculated from them. Lipoprotein(a) is a cholesterol-carrying particle whose level is largely set by genetics rather than lifestyle, and it is commonly used alongside other markers to assess inherited cardiovascular risk. Apolipoprotein B reflects the number of cholesterol-carrying particles in your blood, which some people find gives a fuller picture than cholesterol levels alone.
Within the tests we compare it with, this one sits above the middle for price and near the top for depth. Thriva's own cholesterol and apolipoproteins test covers 10 markers for £73.80, and Medichecks and Forth offer similar apolipoprotein panels at £89 each with fewer markers (9 and 8 respectively). Better2Know's nurse-administered kits go further on depth or convenience but cost considerably more, at £395 and £445. At £108, this test sits above the group median of £98.50.
The score here is driven mainly by strong trust signals and collection convenience: results come from a finger-prick sample you take at home, with a venous or nurse-visit option available, and turnaround is quick at around 2 days. Trust signals reflect Thriva's Trustpilot rating of 4.6 from over 3,000 reviews, its UKAS-accredited partner labs, CQC registration, and doctor review as standard. It also scores well on clinical depth, with 11 biomarkers against a median of 10 across its comparison group, and the listing is clearly documented, covering the description, full biomarker list, turnaround and collection options. It loses some ground on value for money because its price sits above the group median, and on results and follow-up because Thriva does not describe what the results report itself looks like, even though a doctor reviews the results.
Who is it for?
This test suits people who want to look beyond a standard cholesterol check, particularly if there is a family history of early heart disease, since Lipoprotein(a) levels are largely inherited and are not part of routine lipid panels. It also suits anyone who wants apolipoprotein readings alongside their cholesterol markers for a fuller view of cardiovascular risk.
If cost matters most and you do not need every marker here, Thriva's own cholesterol and apolipoproteins blood test covers 10 markers for £73.80, £34.20 less than this profile. If you would rather have a nurse-administered service and are prepared to pay significantly more, Better2Know's Complete or Advanced Heart Health Nurse Kits go further on markers or convenience, at £395 and £445.
How it works
You take this as an at-home finger-prick blood sample, or you can arrange a nurse-taken venous sample for an extra £60. The sample is sent to Thriva's partner labs for analysis, and results are reviewed by a doctor before you receive them, typically within around 2 days of the lab receiving your sample. The provider does not describe the format of the results report.