What is Red Cell Distribution Width?

Red Cell Distribution Width (RDW) is a measurement used in blood tests to quantify the variation in the size and volume of red blood cells (RBCs) within a blood sample. This provides insight into the uniformity of RBC sizes, with higher RDW values indicating greater variability. 

If all the RBCs are of different sizes, they become less efficient at their function. This can be a sign of various health issues.

How it’s related to your healthspan

RDW is increasingly recognized as an important biomarker for overall health and longevity. 

Elevated RDW levels outside of the normal range have been associated with a variety of conditions, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and inflammatory disorders. High RDW can also reflect nutritional deficiencies, such as iron, vitamin B12, or folate deficiencies, or bone marrow dysfunctions. 

Additionally, research suggests that high RDW may be linked to increased mortality risk in the elderly, making it a significant marker for assessing and predicting healthspan. However, the association is not yet fully understood. As a result, RDW alone does not provide sufficient information for predicting mortality risk, and it is typically considered alongside other clinical parameters and biomarkers.

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How to optimise your Red Cell Distribution Width results

Ensuring a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients is fundamental. Foods high in iron, such as lean meats, spinach, and legumes, along with vitamin B12 sources like eggs and dairy, and folate-rich foods like leafy greens and fortified cereals, can help maintain healthy RBC production and uniformity. 

For those with persistently high RDW, medical consultation is important to identify and treat any underlying conditions or nutrient deficiencies.

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How to analyse your Red Cell Distribution Width

Understanding your biomarkers can help detect potential health issues early and guide you in making informed health decisions. Personalised recommendations enhance your overall well-being.

Take the next step by booking your Mito Health Longevity Health Screening today.

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What your Longevity Health Screening includes ($499):

• Analysis of 67 biomarkers
• Health risk assessments
• Personalised health recommendations
• Secure online dashboard to track results
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How to book your health screening:

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• Step 1: Register online
• Step 2: Choose your blood draw location: Home or Trapeze Rec Club.
• Step 3: Receive results online in 7-10 working days. 

Book now

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Why choose Mito Health to analyse your biomarkers?

• Convenient home-based blood draws or at our Tanjong Pagar wellness studio: Trapeze Rec Club.
• Expert analysis by our Longevity Doctor Dr Ryan Ware, who personally vets all the results & diagnosis.
• Actionable insights. You can act on your results with our personalised recommendations to improve your health today.
  
  

Frequently Asked Questions:

Is your health screening claimable by insurance or company benefits?

• Yes, our health screening is recognised by insurance & corporate companies as a health screening panel. You will be issued an official invoice which can be used to file a claim.
  

What do I need to take note of before my blood test?

• You’ll be required to fast 8 hours before the blood draw. Plain water is allowed.
• No strenuous exercise 12 hours prior to the test.
  

Do I have to fast before the blood test?

• Yes, you’ll be required to fast 8 hours before your blood draw. Plain water is allowed. 

Do I have to give my urine & stool samples?

• Yes^, you will be required to provide urine & stool samples. Samples can be collected the same day as your blood draw, as the containers will be sent to you in advance. If you’re not able to produce the samples on the same day, they can be picked up on a separate arranged day. 

How long does the health screening take?

• Just 15-20 minutes! We’ll collect your blood sample & key biometrics. Stool & urine samples can be collected on the same day or in a separate arrangement. 

How often should I do a health screening?

• Doctors recommend at least twice a year, so you can also measure before & after any health interventions. 
• Our health screening is also complementary to traditional GP & Hospital health screenings if you have already done your health screening for the year. Our test report offers more in-depth insights & tailored health recommendations. You can view examples of the insights on our demo dashboard here. 
• Our panel of biomarkers not only extends your lifespan with early illness detection, but they also provide helpful insights to how you can feel & move better. Learn more about our biomarkers here. 

Why is health screening important?

• Long-term health: Regular screenings can help you stay healthy throughout your life. By identifying and addressing potential problems early on, you can reduce your risk of developing more serious health problems down the road.
• Early treatment is better: Many health conditions are easier and more affordable to treat when caught early. Screenings can help identify these issues before they become more serious and require more extensive treatment.
• Peace of mind: Knowing your health status through screenings can be a big stress reliever. It allows you to focus on staying healthy and enjoying life.
• Think of it as an investment in your future health and well-being. It's a chance to take control and stay proactive about your health.
  
  

I have more questions, how do I contact you? 

You can email us at help@mitohealth.com & we'll revert as soon as possible!

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