What is PLAC?

The lipoprotein (fat and protein combination) enzyme found in our blood is known as Lp-PLA2, or PLAC for short. Increased PLAC levels indicate active cardiovascular disease, therefore placing individuals with more PLAC at an increased risk of stroke and heart attack. Inflammatory responses in our arteries are caused when our blood carries PLAC to the fatty cholesterol deposits (plaque) that line the walls of coronary arteries. Such inflammation causes an increased risk of plaque breaking off and blocking the coronary arteries (heart attack) or the brain’s blood vessels (stroke).

Measuring PLAC is a more specific determiner of coronary artery inflammation than alternate inflammatory markers, so this testing provides highly beneficial insight into your cardiovascular health.

Why consider a PLAC test?

You should consider a PLAC test if you have any concerns about your cardiovascular health, particularly if you are experiencing medical risk factors including:

• Diabetes
• Family history
• High blood pressure
• High cholesterol

Or if you participate in lifestyle risks such as:

• Being physically inactive
• Smoking
• Unhealthy diet (high in fat and sugar)
• Drink more than the recommended amount of alcohol

Taking a PLAC test is an essential first step in maintaining your bodily health.

Can you explain the Better2Know PLAC test process?

You will receive your home PLAC testing kit package in the mail, complete with a small tube for blood sample collection, a pre-printed pathology form, antiseptic wipes, three-finger prick lancets, and a return envelope. You will also receive detailed instructions about how to safely collect your sample. Once you obtain your blood sample, you will send it in the provided envelope to our accredited lab for efficient and accurate analysis.

When does my testing kit arrive?

If you order your test kit before end of business hours Monday-Friday, it will be sent out that same day via An Post. It should arrive within 2 to 4 days. If you wish to track your package, a tracking service is available for your convenience. Simply select Special Delivery at checkout to upgrade your delivery.

How would I receive my test results?

Your test results will become available only two workdays after your blood sample is received by our lab. As soon as the results are accessible, a member of our Patient Services team will contact you directly to relay the results. You will also be able to access your results from the secure and confidential patient login on our website.

What should I do about my test results?

Receiving news about elevated PLAC levels is not ideal, but there are methods to help you lower them. Once you are aware of an active disease rather than a potential risk, you can knowledgably discuss lifestyle changes and medications with your doctor that can help lower your cholesterol and reduce dangerous cardiovascular incidents. For example, lipid-lowering agents such as statins are hugely advantageous in reducing cardiovascular risk.

Better2Know can help you schedule private consultations with our network of skilled doctors throughout Ireland. Whether you would like to meet with a professional before taking your blood test or after your results, we are here to assist you.

How do I order my PLAC home test?

On this PLAC test kit page, you can select the ‘Add to Basket’ button and proceed to checkout. You may also purchase this kit over the phone by calling the Better2Know number listed above. A dedicated member of our team will be happy to process your order and answer any questions you may have. The Better2Know team is available 24/7 to help you navigate our extensive list of services. We offer other health tests and screens throughout Ireland, helping you obtain accurate results regarding your health and well-being.