Blood Count Tests

A Complete Blood Count (CBC) is one of the most commonly ordered blood tests. It measures red blood cells (which carry oxygen), white blood cells (which fight infection), platelets (which help blood clot) and haemoglobin (the iron-rich protein in red cells). CBC is used to screen for, diagnose, or monitor many conditions.

What a CBC can pick up

• Anaemia — low haemoglobin or low red cell count. Extremely common in India, especially in women and children.
• Infection or inflammation — high or low white cell count.
• Bleeding or clotting tendencies — low or abnormal platelets.
• Blood cancers — unusual cell numbers or shapes may prompt more tests.
• Thalassaemia carrier signals — small, pale red cells may trigger further testing, especially relevant in some Indian communities.

When you might need a CBC

• Before and during pregnancy (anaemia screening).
• With unexplained fatigue, pallor, breathlessness or easy bruising.
• As part of a routine health check-up.
• Before surgery or certain treatments.
• To monitor conditions like chronic kidney disease or cancer therapy.

India context

India's anaemia burden is among the highest in the world — more than half of women of reproductive age and a majority of children under 5 are anaemic (National Family Health Survey). A CBC is often the first test that reveals it. Thalassaemia carrier rates are also significant in communities of Bengali, Gujarati, Sindhi and Punjabi origin — CBC patterns may be the first clue, and a haemoglobin electrophoresis / HPLC test can confirm.

Test results are usually available the same day. If your report shows abnormal values, see a Health Expert — the pattern and your symptoms matter more than any single number.