LAB TEST
Complete Blood Count (CBC)
A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is one of the most common and essential blood tests used to evaluate your overall health. It helps detect a wide range of conditions — from infections and inflammation to anemia and immune disorders — often before symptoms even appear. At My Health Medical Centre, we provide quick, accurate CBC testing so you can understand your health better and take proactive steps when needed.
What is a CBC & Why is it important?
A CBC measures the main components of your blood — red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets — providing a detailed picture of how well your body is functioning. Because blood circulates through every part of the body, it carries valuable clues about your overall wellness.
- Detects infections, anemia, and blood disorders early.
- Monitors ongoing medical conditions and treatment progress.
- Assesses immune system health.
- Helps identify causes of fatigue, weakness, or unexplained symptoms.
What Is Done in a CBC
The CBC test is simple, quick, and minimally invasive. A trained healthcare professional collects a small blood sample from a vein in your arm using a sterile needle. This sample is sent to our diagnostic laboratory, where automated analyzers and trained medical technologists measure and interpret several key indicators:
Red Blood Cell Count (RBC)
Determines how well your blood carries oxygen throughout your body.
Hemoglobin (Hb):
Measures the oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells. Low levels often indicate anemia.
Hematocrit (Hct):
Shows the proportion of red cells to plasma, helping evaluate hydration or blood loss.
White Blood Cell Count (WBC):
Indicates how your immune system is responding to infections or inflammation.
Platelet Count:
Assesses blood clotting ability and detects bleeding or clotting disorders.
Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV) and Related Indices:
Provide details about the size and shape of red blood cells, which help classify different types of anemia.
What You Should Know Before a CBC
You can eat and drink normally before your appointment unless your doctor has requested additional fasting tests.
You’ll feel a slight pinch when the needle is inserted, but the discomfort lasts only a few seconds.
Results are typically ready within 24 hours, and urgent cases can often be expedited.
Certain medications may affect blood results. Inform your healthcare provider of any medicines or supplements you’re taking.
A doctor will explain your results and discuss whether any further tests or treatments are necessary.