Life‑insurance medical underwriting typically uses blood and urine samples to verify the applicant's health status, detect conditions that affect mortality risk, and confirm disclosed information. The most common markers include cholesterol, blood sugar, liver enzymes, kidney function, and substance‑use indicators.
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Key Blood Test Markers
Blood work provides a snapshot of cardiovascular, metabolic, and organ health. The primary components examined are:
- Cholesterol profile – total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, and triglycerides gauge heart‑disease risk.
- Glucose and HbA1c – assess current blood‑sugar levels and long‑term diabetes control.
- Liver enzymes (ALT, AST, GGT) – reveal liver inflammation, fatty liver disease, or alcohol‑related damage.
- Kidney function (creatinine, BUN, eGFR) – indicate renal performance and potential chronic kidney disease.
- Complete blood count (CBC) – detects anemia, infections, or blood‑cell disorders.
- Thyroid panel (TSH, T4) – screens for hypo‑ or hyper‑thyroidism, which can affect metabolism and heart health.
Common Urine Test Elements
Urine analysis complements blood results by revealing substances the body excretes and any hidden health issues.
- Protein – excess protein may signal kidney damage.
- Glucose – presence can indicate uncontrolled diabetes.
- Blood – microscopic hematuria can point to urinary tract or kidney problems.
- Drugs and metabolites – tests for nicotine, THC, cocaine, opiates, and other illicit substances.
- Infection markers – leukocytes and nitrites suggest urinary tract infections.
Typical Test Panel Comparison
| Test Type | Primary Indicator | Risk Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| Blood lipid panel | Cholesterol, triglycerides | Cardiovascular mortality |
| Glucose/HbA1c | Blood sugar control | Diabetes‑related complications |
| Liver enzymes | ALT, AST, GGT | Alcohol use, liver disease |
| Kidney markers | Creatinine, eGFR | Renal failure risk |
| Urine drug screen | Nicotine, THC, opiates, etc. | Lifestyle‑related mortality |
Why Insurers Require These Tests
Underwriters use the results to assign a risk class that determines premium rates. Elevated cholesterol or blood pressure may raise rates, while a clean drug screen can qualify an applicant for preferred pricing. Conversely, undisclosed conditions discovered through testing can lead to policy denial or higher premiums.
What Applicants Should Expect
Applicants usually provide a fasting blood sample and a mid‑stream urine specimen at a certified lab. Results are sent directly to the insurer, and most companies share only the risk‑relevant findings, not the full medical report.