Why This Lab Is Important
+
Heart disease risk is best understood by evaluating multiple cardiovascular markers and observing how they change over time. The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel provides a foundational look at key lipid values, including total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. These markers matter because high LDL and triglycerides can promote plaque buildup, while low HDL reduces the ability to clear excess cholesterol.*
Dr. Passero uses the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel as an entry-level assessment of lipid health, offering a straightforward look at total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. Although these traditional markers capture only the most basic aspects of cardiovascular risk, they remain useful for establishing a baseline and identifying when more advanced testing—such as particle number or ApoB analysis—may be needed.*
Dr. Passero recommends the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel for anyone seeking to:*
The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel provides a solid foundation for evaluating cardiovascular health. For those interested in more in-depth testing, we also offer the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM panel and Durable CARDIO ULTIMATE panel.*
What’s Included in the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL Panel
This panel tests for the following key markers that influence cardiovascular risk:*
What to Expect After Ordering Your Lab Test
After purchasing a lab test from Durable, you’ll receive an order confirmation right away. Your lab order will be emailed separately within two business days. All lab-related communications—including your lab order, instructions and results notifications—are sent via encrypted, HIPAA-compliant email from labs@livedurable.com. To ensure timely delivery, we recommend adding this address to your contacts and checking your spam or promotions folder.
Lab Locations
We've partnered with LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics for convenient blood draw locations nationwide. Once your lab order is emailed to you, it will designate the most convenient location based on your address. You should contact the lab directly to schedule an appointment, and we recommend having your blood draw performed within 2-4 weeks. If you have any concerns about the selected location, please email labs@livedurable.com to explore alternative options.
Timing of Results
Once your blood draw is complete, most results are available within one week. You’ll receive an email notification from labs@livedurable.com when your results are ready to review.
How to Interpret Results
All test results include a lab-generated reference range reflecting values commonly seen in a healthy population. Results are flagged only when they fall outside this range as high or low. While these reference ranges provide helpful context, results are best interpreted alongside your health history, symptoms and trends over time and should be reviewed with your healthcare practitioner.
If you are interested in a virtual lab review with Dr. Passero, you may email his office at GetHealthy@DrKevinPassero.com to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Passero uses the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel as an entry-level assessment of lipid health, offering a straightforward look at total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. Although these traditional markers capture only the most basic aspects of cardiovascular risk, they remain useful for establishing a baseline and identifying when more advanced testing—such as particle number or ApoB analysis—may be needed.*
Dr. Passero recommends the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel for anyone seeking to:*
- Establish a baseline for key cholesterol markers
- Monitor the impact of diet, exercise or supplementation
- Assess basic lipid markers associated with metabolic dysfunction
The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel provides a solid foundation for evaluating cardiovascular health. For those interested in more in-depth testing, we also offer the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM panel and Durable CARDIO ULTIMATE panel.*
What’s Included in the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL Panel
This panel tests for the following key markers that influence cardiovascular risk:*
- Total Cholesterol—Total cholesterol reflects the combined amount of cholesterol circulating in your blood, including LDL, HDL and other lipid particles. This marker provides useful context when interpreted alongside the individual components of the panel.
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)—LDL is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, and for good reason. LDL particles transport cholesterol through the bloodstream and can deposit it into artery walls. This process can trigger inflammation, promote plaque formation, and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and cognitive decline. Elevated LDL is one of the strongest predictors of long-term cardiovascular risk.
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)—HDL is considered protective because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and artery walls and transports it back to the liver for clearance. Adequate HDL levels support this cleanup process and help counterbalance cardiovascular risk. However, extremely high HDL levels (generally above 90) are not necessarily protective and do not offset the risks associated with elevated LDL level.
- Triglycerides—Triglycerides are a form of fat used by the body for energy storage. Their levels are closely tied to blood sugar regulation, insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health. Elevated triglycerides often signal underlying metabolic stress, such as insulin resistance or poor glucose control, and are associated with increased cardiovascular risk, particularly when combined with high LDL or low HDL.
What to Expect After Ordering Your Lab Test
After purchasing a lab test from Durable, you’ll receive an order confirmation right away. Your lab order will be emailed separately within two business days. All lab-related communications—including your lab order, instructions and results notifications—are sent via encrypted, HIPAA-compliant email from labs@livedurable.com. To ensure timely delivery, we recommend adding this address to your contacts and checking your spam or promotions folder.
Lab Locations
We've partnered with LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics for convenient blood draw locations nationwide. Once your lab order is emailed to you, it will designate the most convenient location based on your address. You should contact the lab directly to schedule an appointment, and we recommend having your blood draw performed within 2-4 weeks. If you have any concerns about the selected location, please email labs@livedurable.com to explore alternative options.
Timing of Results
Once your blood draw is complete, most results are available within one week. You’ll receive an email notification from labs@livedurable.com when your results are ready to review.
How to Interpret Results
All test results include a lab-generated reference range reflecting values commonly seen in a healthy population. Results are flagged only when they fall outside this range as high or low. While these reference ranges provide helpful context, results are best interpreted alongside your health history, symptoms and trends over time and should be reviewed with your healthcare practitioner.
If you are interested in a virtual lab review with Dr. Passero, you may email his office at GetHealthy@DrKevinPassero.com to schedule an appointment.
Lab-Specific FAQs
+
What does the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel test for?
Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides.*
Why consider upgrading to the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM or CARDIO ULTIMATE panels?
The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel focuses on core lipid markers—LDL, HDL, total cholesterol and triglycerides. It does not measure lipid particles, inflammatory markers or genetic risk factors, which are included in other panels such as the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM panel, Durable CARDIO ULTIMATE panel and the Durable CARDIO GENETIC test. Emerging research has shown that these newer and more advanced lipid, inflammatory and genetic markers give a much more accurate assessment of cardiovascular disease risk.*
Do I need to fast or follow any special instructions prior to this test?
Yes. The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel requires 10-12 hours of fasting prior to testing. Water is allowed during the fasting period, but other beverages should be avoided for the most accurate results.*
Can I take medications beforehand?
Yes. Most medications do not interfere with lipid testing, and results are often meant to reflect how your cholesterol levels look while on your current regimen. Do not stop medications unless directed by your healthcare practitioner.*
Will recent diet or alcohol intake affect my results?
Yes. Recent dietary choices, alcohol intake and even significant weight loss can temporarily affect lipid levels, particularly triglycerides. High-fat or high-sugar meals can cause triglycerides to appear elevated. Following fasting instructions and testing under typical conditions helps ensure more accurate results.*
How often should I get this test?
Dr. Passero recommends routine monitoring of these markers, with testing every 3-6 months for most adults. Re-testing at the recommended interval allows you and your healthcare practitioner to monitor trends over time, assess how your body is responding to lifestyle or nutritional changes and make informed adjustments. Testing frequency should be individualized based on risk factors, clinical context and your doctor’s recommendations.*
Does insurance cover the cost of my tests?
Lab tests must be paid for in full at checkout using a credit card, a supported payment platform (such as Shop Pay, PayPal, Google Pay or Venmo), or an eligible FSA/HSA debit card. In some cases, health insurance providers may reimburse individuals for lab testing. You can contact your insurance provider directly to determine whether reimbursement is available. Please note that Durable is unable to provide insurance paperwork or assist with claim submission.
Can I get a refund if I choose not to get my lab work?
Yes. You may request a refund within 365 days of purchase, as long as you have not visited the lab and had your blood drawn.
Can I use a coupon when purchasing my lab test?
At this time, promotions and coupons cannot be applied to lab testing. Lab pricing reflects the cost of clinical testing and processing, and discounts are not available for these services. However, you can redeem Durable REWARDS points at checkout, and when you purchase a lab order, you’ll earn additional points.
Is this blood test for adults only?
Durable lab testing is intended for adults 18 years and older. Testing for individuals under 18 is only recommended when directed by a qualified healthcare provider.*
Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides.*
Why consider upgrading to the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM or CARDIO ULTIMATE panels?
The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel focuses on core lipid markers—LDL, HDL, total cholesterol and triglycerides. It does not measure lipid particles, inflammatory markers or genetic risk factors, which are included in other panels such as the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM panel, Durable CARDIO ULTIMATE panel and the Durable CARDIO GENETIC test. Emerging research has shown that these newer and more advanced lipid, inflammatory and genetic markers give a much more accurate assessment of cardiovascular disease risk.*
Do I need to fast or follow any special instructions prior to this test?
Yes. The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel requires 10-12 hours of fasting prior to testing. Water is allowed during the fasting period, but other beverages should be avoided for the most accurate results.*
Can I take medications beforehand?
Yes. Most medications do not interfere with lipid testing, and results are often meant to reflect how your cholesterol levels look while on your current regimen. Do not stop medications unless directed by your healthcare practitioner.*
Will recent diet or alcohol intake affect my results?
Yes. Recent dietary choices, alcohol intake and even significant weight loss can temporarily affect lipid levels, particularly triglycerides. High-fat or high-sugar meals can cause triglycerides to appear elevated. Following fasting instructions and testing under typical conditions helps ensure more accurate results.*
How often should I get this test?
Dr. Passero recommends routine monitoring of these markers, with testing every 3-6 months for most adults. Re-testing at the recommended interval allows you and your healthcare practitioner to monitor trends over time, assess how your body is responding to lifestyle or nutritional changes and make informed adjustments. Testing frequency should be individualized based on risk factors, clinical context and your doctor’s recommendations.*
Does insurance cover the cost of my tests?
Lab tests must be paid for in full at checkout using a credit card, a supported payment platform (such as Shop Pay, PayPal, Google Pay or Venmo), or an eligible FSA/HSA debit card. In some cases, health insurance providers may reimburse individuals for lab testing. You can contact your insurance provider directly to determine whether reimbursement is available. Please note that Durable is unable to provide insurance paperwork or assist with claim submission.
Can I get a refund if I choose not to get my lab work?
Yes. You may request a refund within 365 days of purchase, as long as you have not visited the lab and had your blood drawn.
Can I use a coupon when purchasing my lab test?
At this time, promotions and coupons cannot be applied to lab testing. Lab pricing reflects the cost of clinical testing and processing, and discounts are not available for these services. However, you can redeem Durable REWARDS points at checkout, and when you purchase a lab order, you’ll earn additional points.
Is this blood test for adults only?
Durable lab testing is intended for adults 18 years and older. Testing for individuals under 18 is only recommended when directed by a qualified healthcare provider.*
Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL Panel®
Dr. Passero recommends this basic panel to assess core cholesterol markers—total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides—serving as a baseline for monitoring lipid-related cardiovascular risk and changes over time.*
Suggested Frequency: Every 3-6 Months
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Why This Lab Is Important
+
Heart disease risk is best understood by evaluating multiple cardiovascular markers and observing how they change over time. The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel provides a foundational look at key lipid values, including total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. These markers matter because high LDL and triglycerides can promote plaque buildup, while low HDL reduces the ability to clear excess cholesterol.*
Dr. Passero uses the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel as an entry-level assessment of lipid health, offering a straightforward look at total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. Although these traditional markers capture only the most basic aspects of cardiovascular risk, they remain useful for establishing a baseline and identifying when more advanced testing—such as particle number or ApoB analysis—may be needed.*
Dr. Passero recommends the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel for anyone seeking to:*
The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel provides a solid foundation for evaluating cardiovascular health. For those interested in more in-depth testing, we also offer the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM panel and Durable CARDIO ULTIMATE panel.*
What’s Included in the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL Panel
This panel tests for the following key markers that influence cardiovascular risk:*
What to Expect After Ordering Your Lab Test
After purchasing a lab test from Durable, you’ll receive an order confirmation right away. Your lab order will be emailed separately within two business days. All lab-related communications—including your lab order, instructions and results notifications—are sent via encrypted, HIPAA-compliant email from labs@livedurable.com. To ensure timely delivery, we recommend adding this address to your contacts and checking your spam or promotions folder.
Lab Locations
We've partnered with LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics for convenient blood draw locations nationwide. Once your lab order is emailed to you, it will designate the most convenient location based on your address. You should contact the lab directly to schedule an appointment, and we recommend having your blood draw performed within 2-4 weeks. If you have any concerns about the selected location, please email labs@livedurable.com to explore alternative options.
Timing of Results
Once your blood draw is complete, most results are available within one week. You’ll receive an email notification from labs@livedurable.com when your results are ready to review.
How to Interpret Results
All test results include a lab-generated reference range reflecting values commonly seen in a healthy population. Results are flagged only when they fall outside this range as high or low. While these reference ranges provide helpful context, results are best interpreted alongside your health history, symptoms and trends over time and should be reviewed with your healthcare practitioner.
If you are interested in a virtual lab review with Dr. Passero, you may email his office at GetHealthy@DrKevinPassero.com to schedule an appointment.
Dr. Passero uses the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel as an entry-level assessment of lipid health, offering a straightforward look at total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides. Although these traditional markers capture only the most basic aspects of cardiovascular risk, they remain useful for establishing a baseline and identifying when more advanced testing—such as particle number or ApoB analysis—may be needed.*
Dr. Passero recommends the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel for anyone seeking to:*
- Establish a baseline for key cholesterol markers
- Monitor the impact of diet, exercise or supplementation
- Assess basic lipid markers associated with metabolic dysfunction
The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel provides a solid foundation for evaluating cardiovascular health. For those interested in more in-depth testing, we also offer the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM panel and Durable CARDIO ULTIMATE panel.*
What’s Included in the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL Panel
This panel tests for the following key markers that influence cardiovascular risk:*
- Total Cholesterol—Total cholesterol reflects the combined amount of cholesterol circulating in your blood, including LDL, HDL and other lipid particles. This marker provides useful context when interpreted alongside the individual components of the panel.
- LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein)—LDL is often referred to as “bad” cholesterol, and for good reason. LDL particles transport cholesterol through the bloodstream and can deposit it into artery walls. This process can trigger inflammation, promote plaque formation, and increase the risk of heart disease, stroke and cognitive decline. Elevated LDL is one of the strongest predictors of long-term cardiovascular risk.
- HDL (High-Density Lipoprotein)—HDL is considered protective because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream and artery walls and transports it back to the liver for clearance. Adequate HDL levels support this cleanup process and help counterbalance cardiovascular risk. However, extremely high HDL levels (generally above 90) are not necessarily protective and do not offset the risks associated with elevated LDL level.
- Triglycerides—Triglycerides are a form of fat used by the body for energy storage. Their levels are closely tied to blood sugar regulation, insulin sensitivity and overall metabolic health. Elevated triglycerides often signal underlying metabolic stress, such as insulin resistance or poor glucose control, and are associated with increased cardiovascular risk, particularly when combined with high LDL or low HDL.
What to Expect After Ordering Your Lab Test
After purchasing a lab test from Durable, you’ll receive an order confirmation right away. Your lab order will be emailed separately within two business days. All lab-related communications—including your lab order, instructions and results notifications—are sent via encrypted, HIPAA-compliant email from labs@livedurable.com. To ensure timely delivery, we recommend adding this address to your contacts and checking your spam or promotions folder.
Lab Locations
We've partnered with LabCorp and Quest Diagnostics for convenient blood draw locations nationwide. Once your lab order is emailed to you, it will designate the most convenient location based on your address. You should contact the lab directly to schedule an appointment, and we recommend having your blood draw performed within 2-4 weeks. If you have any concerns about the selected location, please email labs@livedurable.com to explore alternative options.
Timing of Results
Once your blood draw is complete, most results are available within one week. You’ll receive an email notification from labs@livedurable.com when your results are ready to review.
How to Interpret Results
All test results include a lab-generated reference range reflecting values commonly seen in a healthy population. Results are flagged only when they fall outside this range as high or low. While these reference ranges provide helpful context, results are best interpreted alongside your health history, symptoms and trends over time and should be reviewed with your healthcare practitioner.
If you are interested in a virtual lab review with Dr. Passero, you may email his office at GetHealthy@DrKevinPassero.com to schedule an appointment.
Lab-Specific FAQs
+
What does the Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel test for?
Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides.*
Why consider upgrading to the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM or CARDIO ULTIMATE panels?
The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel focuses on core lipid markers—LDL, HDL, total cholesterol and triglycerides. It does not measure lipid particles, inflammatory markers or genetic risk factors, which are included in other panels such as the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM panel, Durable CARDIO ULTIMATE panel and the Durable CARDIO GENETIC test. Emerging research has shown that these newer and more advanced lipid, inflammatory and genetic markers give a much more accurate assessment of cardiovascular disease risk.*
Do I need to fast or follow any special instructions prior to this test?
Yes. The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel requires 10-12 hours of fasting prior to testing. Water is allowed during the fasting period, but other beverages should be avoided for the most accurate results.*
Can I take medications beforehand?
Yes. Most medications do not interfere with lipid testing, and results are often meant to reflect how your cholesterol levels look while on your current regimen. Do not stop medications unless directed by your healthcare practitioner.*
Will recent diet or alcohol intake affect my results?
Yes. Recent dietary choices, alcohol intake and even significant weight loss can temporarily affect lipid levels, particularly triglycerides. High-fat or high-sugar meals can cause triglycerides to appear elevated. Following fasting instructions and testing under typical conditions helps ensure more accurate results.*
How often should I get this test?
Dr. Passero recommends routine monitoring of these markers, with testing every 3-6 months for most adults. Re-testing at the recommended interval allows you and your healthcare practitioner to monitor trends over time, assess how your body is responding to lifestyle or nutritional changes and make informed adjustments. Testing frequency should be individualized based on risk factors, clinical context and your doctor’s recommendations.*
Does insurance cover the cost of my tests?
Lab tests must be paid for in full at checkout using a credit card, a supported payment platform (such as Shop Pay, PayPal, Google Pay or Venmo), or an eligible FSA/HSA debit card. In some cases, health insurance providers may reimburse individuals for lab testing. You can contact your insurance provider directly to determine whether reimbursement is available. Please note that Durable is unable to provide insurance paperwork or assist with claim submission.
Can I get a refund if I choose not to get my lab work?
Yes. You may request a refund within 365 days of purchase, as long as you have not visited the lab and had your blood drawn.
Can I use a coupon when purchasing my lab test?
At this time, promotions and coupons cannot be applied to lab testing. Lab pricing reflects the cost of clinical testing and processing, and discounts are not available for these services. However, you can redeem Durable REWARDS points at checkout, and when you purchase a lab order, you’ll earn additional points.
Is this blood test for adults only?
Durable lab testing is intended for adults 18 years and older. Testing for individuals under 18 is only recommended when directed by a qualified healthcare provider.*
Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL and triglycerides.*
Why consider upgrading to the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM or CARDIO ULTIMATE panels?
The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel focuses on core lipid markers—LDL, HDL, total cholesterol and triglycerides. It does not measure lipid particles, inflammatory markers or genetic risk factors, which are included in other panels such as the Durable CARDIO PREMIUM panel, Durable CARDIO ULTIMATE panel and the Durable CARDIO GENETIC test. Emerging research has shown that these newer and more advanced lipid, inflammatory and genetic markers give a much more accurate assessment of cardiovascular disease risk.*
Do I need to fast or follow any special instructions prior to this test?
Yes. The Durable CARDIO ESSENTIAL panel requires 10-12 hours of fasting prior to testing. Water is allowed during the fasting period, but other beverages should be avoided for the most accurate results.*
Can I take medications beforehand?
Yes. Most medications do not interfere with lipid testing, and results are often meant to reflect how your cholesterol levels look while on your current regimen. Do not stop medications unless directed by your healthcare practitioner.*
Will recent diet or alcohol intake affect my results?
Yes. Recent dietary choices, alcohol intake and even significant weight loss can temporarily affect lipid levels, particularly triglycerides. High-fat or high-sugar meals can cause triglycerides to appear elevated. Following fasting instructions and testing under typical conditions helps ensure more accurate results.*
How often should I get this test?
Dr. Passero recommends routine monitoring of these markers, with testing every 3-6 months for most adults. Re-testing at the recommended interval allows you and your healthcare practitioner to monitor trends over time, assess how your body is responding to lifestyle or nutritional changes and make informed adjustments. Testing frequency should be individualized based on risk factors, clinical context and your doctor’s recommendations.*
Does insurance cover the cost of my tests?
Lab tests must be paid for in full at checkout using a credit card, a supported payment platform (such as Shop Pay, PayPal, Google Pay or Venmo), or an eligible FSA/HSA debit card. In some cases, health insurance providers may reimburse individuals for lab testing. You can contact your insurance provider directly to determine whether reimbursement is available. Please note that Durable is unable to provide insurance paperwork or assist with claim submission.
Can I get a refund if I choose not to get my lab work?
Yes. You may request a refund within 365 days of purchase, as long as you have not visited the lab and had your blood drawn.
Can I use a coupon when purchasing my lab test?
At this time, promotions and coupons cannot be applied to lab testing. Lab pricing reflects the cost of clinical testing and processing, and discounts are not available for these services. However, you can redeem Durable REWARDS points at checkout, and when you purchase a lab order, you’ll earn additional points.
Is this blood test for adults only?
Durable lab testing is intended for adults 18 years and older. Testing for individuals under 18 is only recommended when directed by a qualified healthcare provider.*
