A common blood test, often part of a routine checkup, is called a complete blood count (CBC).
Understanding the Complete Blood Count (CBC)
The CBC is a fundamental blood test that provides a broad overview of your health by examining various components of your blood.
What the CBC Measures:
- Red Blood Cells (RBCs): These cells carry oxygen throughout the body. The CBC measures their number, size, and hemoglobin content.
- White Blood Cells (WBCs): These cells are part of your immune system, helping fight off infections. The CBC counts the different types of WBCs.
- Platelets: These tiny cells help in blood clotting. The CBC measures the platelet count in your blood.
Why is a CBC Done?
- Routine health checkups
- Diagnosing infections
- Detecting anemia
- Monitoring chronic conditions
- Assessing the effects of medication
| Component | What it measures | Importance |
|---|---|---|
| Red Blood Cells | Number, size, and hemoglobin content | Oxygen transport, anemia detection |
| White Blood Cells | Count and types of white blood cells | Immune system function, infection detection |
| Platelets | Number of platelets | Blood clotting process |
A CBC test can offer valuable insights into your overall health and guide healthcare professionals in diagnosing and managing various medical conditions, as outlined by the provided reference, "The complete blood count (CBC) is one of the most common blood tests. It is often done as part of a routine checkup. This test measures many different parts of your blood, including red blood cells, white blood cells, and platelets."
