Jane Dotson
Life insurance blood tests are used to determine an individual's health and, consequently, their insurance premium. The tests are typically carried out by a third-party company and can take place at the individual's home, workplace, or a local exam centre. The tests are used to screen for a variety of health markers and conditions, including sexually transmitted diseases, cholesterol levels, kidney disease, diabetes, and drug use. They can also be used to confirm information provided on an insurance application, such as smoking status. The results of these tests can impact an individual's insurance premium or even result in a declined application.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| HIV or AIDS | HIV and AIDS are manageable and may not lead to denial of coverage, but may result in higher premiums |
| STDs | Having an STD does not mean denial of coverage |
| Cholesterol | Insurers are interested in total cholesterol level and the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol |
| Hemoglobin A1C, glucose levels | Hemoglobin measures long-term blood sugar levels; elevated levels indicate risk of diabetes |
| Kidney disease | Chronic conditions may lead to higher chances of being turned down for a policy and higher premiums |
| Diabetes | Diabetes makes it more difficult to acquire life insurance, but actively managed diabetes may still qualify for coverage |
| Drugs | Presence of illegal substances will likely lead to denial of the application |
| Nicotine | Any sign of nicotine will likely lead to higher rates |
| Liver disease | Blood tests check liver enzymes for various factors, including total bilirubin, protein, albumin and globulin |
| Enzyme levels | Checking enzyme levels can show inflammation around organs, which could include cardiac or liver conditions |
| Blood pressure | Higher blood pressure could mean a higher risk of a heart attack or other health issues |
| Urine acidity | High urine acidity is linked to kidney issues or diabetes |
What You'll Learn
HIV/AIDS and hepatitis
HIV/AIDS:
People living with HIV may qualify for term or whole life insurance, but the coverage will likely be expensive due to insurers considering HIV a high insurance risk. While some insurers offer policies to HIV-positive applicants, they usually require a stable health history and may request detailed information about the applicant's condition and health profile. This includes the date of the first diagnosis, adherence to antiretroviral therapy (ART), viral load, CD4 cell count, and any additional chronic conditions or medications. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following prescribed treatments can improve the chances of approval at a reasonable rate.
Hepatitis:
Hepatitis is a viral infection that affects the liver and can range from mild to severe. It is important to note that some people with HIV also have viral hepatitis. Life insurance companies may consider hepatitis as a pre-existing condition, which could impact the availability and cost of coverage. Insurers may request medical information, including hepatitis test results, to assess the applicant's health and determine eligibility. Hepatitis may also be a factor in the underwriting process, which evaluates the degree of risk associated with providing coverage.
It is essential to disclose any medical conditions, including HIV/AIDS and hepatitis, when applying for life insurance. Nondisclosure or misrepresentation of health information can lead to insurance cancellation or non-payment of benefits. Additionally, life insurance companies are bound by data protection laws and must keep medical information confidential.
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Cholesterol and glucose levels
Cholesterol Levels
Life insurance companies typically look at total cholesterol levels as well as the ratio of total cholesterol to HDL cholesterol. The desirable level for total cholesterol is below 200 mg/dL. Levels between 200 and 239 mg/dL are considered borderline high, while levels above 240 mg/dL are classified as high.
There are three main types of cholesterol:
- Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), also known as "bad" cholesterol, can build up on artery walls.
- High-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good" cholesterol, helps remove excess LDL from the body.
- Very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) is another form of "bad" cholesterol that can contribute to artery blockage.
Glucose Levels
Glucose levels are measured to assess blood sugar levels. High glucose levels can indicate diabetes. The optimal range for fasting blood glucose is 80-130 mg per deciliter. The hemoglobin A1C test measures long-term blood sugar control, with levels above 5.7% indicating an increased risk of diabetes.
High cholesterol and glucose levels can impact life insurance premiums and may even result in a higher risk classification or denial of coverage. However, lifestyle changes and medical interventions can help improve these levels and potentially lower insurance rates.
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Nicotine and drug use
Life insurance medical exams are used to assess your health, confirm the information on your application, and screen for illegal drug use. Blood and urine tests are used to screen for dozens of health markers and conditions.
Nicotine
Life insurance companies test for nicotine and cotinine, a byproduct of tobacco, to determine whether you've used tobacco products. These tests can be done on blood, urine, saliva, or hair samples. While blood and urine tests can detect nicotine and cotinine for up to a few days after use, hair tests can detect nicotine use for one to three months, and in some cases, up to 12 months.
It's important to be honest about your nicotine and tobacco use on your application. Lying about your tobacco use may be considered a "material misrepresentation," which can void your coverage or result in a reduced death benefit for your family if something happens to you.
If you're a smoker, you can expect to pay higher premiums than non-smokers due to the increased health risks associated with smoking. Smokers are more likely to pass away while they are covered by insurance, and insurers raise premium prices to compensate for the higher risk.
However, if you quit smoking, many insurers will allow you to reclassify into a non-smoker rate category after a period of time, typically after being tobacco-free for at least a year.
Drug Use
Life insurance blood and urine tests also screen for prescription and recreational drug use. If your blood or urine test shows that you use drugs recreationally, such as amphetamines or opiates, you may be denied coverage. The only exception is marijuana, which many companies allow but may charge higher rates for.
It's important to answer all questions about drug use honestly during the medical exam. If the insurance company finds any inconsistencies or false information on your application, they may deny coverage.
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Kidney and liver disease
Kidney Disease
Kidney function is assessed by looking at creatinine and blood urea nitrogen levels in the blood. High levels of these waste products in the blood can indicate kidney impairment. The urine creatinine test measures how much creatinine is being expelled from the body in urine. A protein/creatinine ratio is also calculated to assess how well the kidney is functioning on its own.
Liver Disease
Liver function tests can distinguish between acute and chronic liver disorders and between hepatitis and cholestasis. The following tests are conducted to identify liver issues:
- Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) – a high level of this protein could indicate liver disease.
- Alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) – these liver enzymes are released when there is liver damage. The higher the number, the more damage there is to the liver.
- Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) – high levels of this enzyme are also an indicator of liver damage. Certain medications, illicit drug use, heavy alcohol intake, and bile tract obstruction can lead to high levels of GGT.
- Bilirubin – high levels of bilirubin, a product of hemoglobin, can cause jaundice, indicating liver problems.
- Prothrombin time (PTT) test – the prothrombin time test measures how long it takes for blood to clot. Prolonged clotting may indicate liver disease.
- Lactic dehydrogenase test – this test can detect tissue damage and aids in the diagnosis of liver disease.
- 5'-nucleotidase test – this test measures the levels of 5'-nucleotidase, an enzyme specific to the liver. The level is elevated in persons with liver diseases, especially those associated with cholestasis (disruption in the formation of, or obstruction in the flow of bile).
- Mitochondrial antibodies test – the presence of these antibodies can indicate primary biliary cirrhosis, chronic active hepatitis, and certain other autoimmune disorders.
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Inflammation and organ issues
Life insurance blood tests can detect inflammation and organ issues, including liver and kidney problems.
Inflammation
Alkaline phosphatase (ALP) is an enzyme found in the bone and liver. A blood test can detect high levels of ALP, which could indicate inflammation of the liver.
Organ Issues
Kidney Issues
Kidney infections and kidney disease can be detected by a blood test. Blood urea nitrogen (BUN) is a by-product of protein metabolism, cleared by the kidneys. A high level of BUN could indicate a kidney disorder. Creatinine, another by-product cleared by the kidneys, will also be tested for. Urine tests can also indicate kidney issues.
Liver Issues
Liver enzymes such as alanine aminotransferase (ALT) and aspartate aminotransferase (AST) can be detected in the blood. High levels of these enzymes could indicate inflammation of the liver or liver disease. Gamma-glutamyl transferase (GGT) is another liver enzyme that might indicate high liver activity or workload, which could be caused by alcohol consumption, medication, or liver disease.
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Frequently asked questions
Life insurance blood tests detect health indicators such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and high glucose levels. They also screen for drug use, including nicotine and cotinine, prescription medications, and controlled substances.
Failing a life insurance blood test can result in higher premiums or, in severe cases, a declined application. If you conceal information that is revealed by the medical exam, your application could be denied, or your coverage could be canceled.
Here are some steps you can take to prepare for a life insurance blood test:
- Eat healthy foods and avoid high-sodium and sugary foods, which can raise your blood pressure or cholesterol.
- Fast for six to eight hours before the exam, as this will ensure that your blood sugar and cholesterol numbers are not skewed.
- Stay hydrated, as this will help flush out your body and dilate your veins, making them easier to find during the blood test.
- Avoid strenuous exercise, as it can cause a temporary spike in your blood pressure that might be detected in your urine sample.
- Avoid certain medications, such as over-the-counter cold remedies, allergy medications, and ibuprofen, as these can trigger false positives for certain drugs.
