CBC Test, Complete Blood Count, Haemogram

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is one of the most common health markers used to evaluate your overall health and detect a wide range of disorders, including anemia, infection, and even leukemia. In this guide, we'll dissect what a CBC entails, its components, and the significance of understanding your results.

The CBC is a blood test that provides a count of your blood cells, including red blood cells (RBCs), white blood cells (WBCs), and platelets. It measures several components and features of your blood, including hemoglobin, hematocrit, and mean corpuscular volume (MCV).

• Red Blood Cells (RBCs): Carry oxygen from your lungs to the rest of your body and bring carbon dioxide back to your lungs to be exhaled.
• White Blood Cells (WBCs): Fight infection and react against foreign bodies or substances.
• Platelets: Help with blood clotting.
• Hemoglobin: The oxygen-carrying protein in red blood cells.
• Hematocrit: The ratio of the volume of red blood cells to the total volume of blood.
• Mean Corpuscular Volume (MCV): Measures the average size of your red blood cells.

The normal ranges can vary slightly depending on the laboratory's equipment and methods. However, general reference ranges are as follows:

RBC count: 4.5-5.9 million cells/mcL for men; 4.1-5.1 million cells/mcL for women
WBC count: 4,500 to 11,000 cells/mcL
Platelet count: 150,000 to 450,000/dL
Hemoglobin: 13.5-17.5 grams/dL for men; 12.0-15.5 grams/dL for women
Hematocrit: 38.8-50.0% for men; 34.9-44.5% for women
MCV: 80-96 femtoliters/cell

• High Results: Might suggest dehydration, a heart condition, or polycythemia vera, infection 
• Low Results: Could indicate anemia, a recent hemorrhage, or a nutritional deficiency

• Fatigue
• Weakness
• Fever
• Bruising
• Bleeding

Adults should have a CBC as part of their routine check-up. If you're managing a condition or taking certain medications, more frequent CBCs may be necessary.

• Diet: Eat a balanced diet rich in iron, vitamin B12, and folate.
• Hydration: Maintain proper hydration, as dehydration can falsely elevate some CBC parameters.
• Exercise: Regular physical activity can help keep your blood cells healthy.

• Can a CBC detect cancer?

While a CBC alone cannot diagnose cancer, it can signal to a physician that further testing may be required.

• What is the most concerning aspect of a CBC?

Significantly high or low levels of any blood component may require further evaluation.

• Does a CBC require fasting?

Fasting is not typically necessary for a CBC.

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new diet or exercise program.