Cardiometabolic Blood Spot Test: Fasting & Collection

This guide covers the dried blood spot cardiometabolic panel described in the Blood Spot CardioMetabolic instructions. The matching male B-222M and female B-222 kits measure fasting insulin, HbA1c, high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP), triglycerides, total cholesterol and HDL cholesterol. The panel requires a fasting sample, so plan the collection for the morning and follow the kit leaflet for the exact card and return steps.

Fast before your collection

The product instructions say to collect within one hour of waking after having nothing to eat or drink except water since the previous evening. This matters for the fasting insulin and triglyceride measurements. If you eat, drink anything other than water, or miss the morning collection window, contact the laboratory using the details in your kit before collecting later. Do not stop or change prescribed medicines; ask your healthcare professional or the laboratory how to handle medicines or supplements around the fast.

Prepare the blood spot card

Read the cardiometabolic leaflet and the general Blood Spot Reference Guide before starting. Set out the card, supplied lancet, alcohol pad, gauze and return materials on a clean, dry surface. Wash and dry your hands, warm them as directed, and write your details on the card where shown. Avoid touching the filter-paper areas.

Collect the sample

1. Clean the side of a finger with the alcohol pad and let it air-dry. Use the supplied lancet as shown in your kit.
2. Follow the leaflet’s directions for the first drop and place the required drops on the marked circles. Avoid smearing or overlapping; use the card exactly as illustrated.
3. Let the card dry open for the full time stated in the instructions. Do not pack it while damp.
4. Check that the card is labelled correctly, complete the paperwork and return everything in the supplied packaging.

Check the kit and return it

Keep the cardiometabolic card separate from any other samples in a multi-test kit and follow each leaflet for its own timing and preparation. The product pages list results within 3–5 working days after the laboratory receives the sample.

View the matching tests

See the Female CardioMetabolic Test Kit (B-222) or the Male CardioMetabolic Test Kit (B-222M).

This article is for general sample-collection information only, not medical advice, diagnosis or treatment guidance. Follow the instructions supplied with your kit and speak with a qualified healthcare professional about medicines, supplements or fasting concerns.