The Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) Test measures the level of ApoB protein in your blood—a key marker for heart health and cardiovascular disease (CVD). ApoB is found in lipoproteins that carry cholesterol and lipids through the blood. ApoB may be a better predictor of cardiovascular risk than standard cholesterol tests for some individuals, especially for those with metabolic syndrome or diabetes.
Elevated ApoB levels are associated with increased risk of cardiovascular disease, even when traditional cholesterol levels appear normal. By measuring ApoB levels, you get a better understanding of your heart health and can make informed decisions about your lifestyle, nutrition, and wellness strategies.
Note: This test is not intended to diagnose CVD, type 2 diabetes, or other diseases.
Preparation: Fast for 12-14 hours (no food or drink, except water) before sample collection.
ApoB is the major protein on LDL particles which carry substances in your blood that help make plaque, a waxy fat that can block your arteries. An ApoB test measures the amount of ApoB in the blood. An elevated level of ApoB may indicate an increased risk for cardiovascular disease.1
Lifestyle changes such as healthy dietary choices, exercise or weight loss programs can help reduce risk of cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes and other related conditions. Measuring your ApoB levels can help you and your healthcare provider assess whether these changes are effectively reducing your risk.
Researchers have found that measuring ApoB may predict cardiovascular disease risk better than the standard lipid panel in some individuals. ApoB testing may be a better risk predictor for individuals with metabolic syndrome or diabetes because their LDL may be denser or smaller.
The ApoB test checks a key protein linked to 'bad' cholesterol, which can cause plaque buildup in your arteries. Knowing your ApoB levels helps you and your healthcare provider assess your risk for heart disease and take steps to protect your heart health.
1. Devaraj S, Semaan JR, Jialal I. Biochemistry, Apolipoprotein B. In: StatPearls. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; May 14, 2023.
2. Labcorp. Apolipoprotein B. Labcorp. Accessed July 28, 2025. https://www.labcorp.com/tests/167015/apolipoprotein-b
<p>1. Devaraj S, Semaan JR, Jialal I. Biochemistry, Apolipoprotein B. In: <i>StatPearls</i>. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; May 14, 2023.</p> <p>2. Labcorp. Apolipoprotein B. Labcorp. Accessed July 28, 2025. <a href="https://www.labcorp.com/tests/167015/apolipoprotein-b" target="_blank" title="apolipoprotein-b" rel="noopener noreferrer">https://www.labcorp.com/tests/167015/apolipoprotein-b</a></p>
Simply purchase this test online. A healthcare provider will review and approve your test requests; no healthcare provider visit is required.
Visit a Labcorp location near you for sample collection. Visits may be scheduled online.
View your easy-to-read results online in your Labcorp Patient™ account, including Linked Accounts. For certain results that require prompt attention, you will also be contacted by phone or mail.
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While standard cholesterol tests measure the amount of cholesterol in your blood, the ApoB test provides information about the number of potentially harmful lipoprotein particles, offering a more accurate assessment of cardiovascular risk.
High apolipoprotein B (ApoB) levels are typically caused by an excess of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) particles, which carry cholesterol through the bloodstream. This can result from genetic factors, diets high in saturated fats and sugars, obesity, insulin resistance, or certain medical conditions like hypothyroidism. Elevated ApoB is a key marker for increased cardiovascular risk.
Higher ApoB levels generally indicate a higher risk of cardiovascular disease. However, results should be interpreted by a healthcare professional in the context of your overall health and other risk factors.
The frequency of testing depends on your individual health status and risk factors. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate testing schedule for you.
Lifestyle modifications such as a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management can positively impact ApoB levels and overall cardiovascular health. Consult your healthcare provider to discuss the results of your ApoB level blood test and next steps.
Yes, fasting for 12-14 hours (no food or drink, except water) before sample collection.
Your testing will be performed in a CLIA-certified clinical laboratory. Labcorp provides leading-edge medical laboratory tests and services through a national network of primary clinical laboratories and specialty testing laboratories. Our labs perform regular quality assurance testing to ensure our results are accurate.
Your results will be provided to you through our secure online portal to view or print. Results are also made available through a secure portal to the independent healthcare provider who placed your test order. If you are accessing your results through your Labcorp Patient™ account, all users linked to the account will have access to all OnDemand test results. Results may also be provided to a local, state, and/or federal health authority; for example, many states require the testing laboratory and physician to report test results for certain communicable diseases, such as COVID-19, to local or state health departments.
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Visit the Labcorp OnDemand® website to browse and purchase laboratory tests and create your Labcorp Patient™ account to view your results. All Labcorp OnDemand testing requires an order from an authorized healthcare professional. For your convenience, Labcorp OnDemand has contracted with independent professional entities (collectively, Providers) to deliver healthcare provider services. Visit a Labcorp location for sample collection; or, if using an at-home collection kit, collect your sample yourself. We’ll let you know when your results are ready and can be accessed through your Labcorp Patient™ account.
