Common Nigerian Health Tests Explained
A guide to the lab tests most commonly recommended in Nigeria and what they tell you.
Common Nigerian Health Tests Explained
When your doctor recommends a health test, it helps to know what it is and why. Here's a guide to tests frequently recommended in Nigeria.
Infectious Disease Tests
Malaria Test (RDT / Blood Film)
Why: Malaria is common in Nigeria When: Fever or symptoms, before pregnancy, routine check What it shows: Presence of malaria parasites
Typhoid Test (Widal Test)
Why: Common in Nigeria, though not always definitive When: Prolonged fever What it shows: Antibodies to typhoid bacteria Note: Interpretation requires clinical context
HIV Test
Why: Important for sexual health When: Routine screening, before surgery/pregnancy What it shows: Presence of HIV antibodies
Blood Tests
Full Blood Count (FBC)
Why: Checks overall blood health When: Annual check, fatigue, infection symptoms What it shows: Red cells, white cells, platelets
Blood Group & Typing
Why: Needed for transfusions, pregnancy When: Before pregnancy, before surgery What it shows: Your blood type (A, B, AB, O + Rh factor)
Liver Function Test (LFT)
Why: Checks liver health When: After jaundice, medication side effects What it shows: Liver enzyme levels
Kidney Function Test (KFT)
Why: Evaluates kidney health When: Hypertension, diabetes, after medication What it shows: Urea, creatinine, electrolytes
Lipid Profile
Why: Checks cholesterol and fat levels When: Age 40+, family history of heart disease What it shows: Total cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides
Specialty Tests
Pregnancy Tests
Types: Urine test (home) or blood test (hCG) When: Suspected pregnancy What it shows: Presence of pregnancy hormone
Urinalysis
Why: Screens for urinary and kidney issues When: Routine check, UTI symptoms, pregnancy What it shows: Proteins, glucose, infections
Getting Your Tests Done
- Consult a healthcare provider
- Get referral if needed
- Go to accredited lab
- Fast if instructed (usually 8-12 hours)
- Bring ID and lab referral
- Ask for results timeline
Understanding Results
- Ask your doctor to explain results
- Consider normal ranges may vary by lab
- Don't self-diagnose based on results
- Follow-up testing often recommended
Get tested regularly as part of preventive healthcare!