HS-Omega-3 Index

The HS-Omega-3 Index test measures the level of omega-3 fatty acids in erythrocyte membranes.

The risk for sudden cardiac death is reduced by up to 90% in individuals with the highest HS-Omega-3 Index^®, and there is growing evidence for an association between omega-3 biostatus and other conditions such as cellular aging, dry eye, macular degeneration, dementia, depression, joint health, etc. Most Americans do not get enough omega-3′s from their diets, and differences in age, weight, sex, diet, lifestyle habits, metabolism, and absorption make it impossible to accurately predict anyone’s omega-3 status. The only way to know for sure is to measure the HS-Omega-3 Index^®

At OmegaQuant, we primarily offer the HS-Omega-3 Index test for researchers and re-sellers. Healthcare providers wishing to use this test in patient care should contact customer service at Health Diagnostic Laboratory (HDL, located in Richmond, VA, 804-343-2718) to set up an account. HDL performs the HS-Omega-3 Index Test. For individuals wishing to have the test performed directly by OmegaQuant contact Customer Service at 1-800-949-0632 or send an inquiry to info@omegaquant.com. Researchers, please contact Customer Service for a price quote for blood, plasma, or tissue fatty acid tests.

Along with the HS-Omega-3 Index, the full fatty acid profile is listed for 26 fatty acids by group – Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Omega-6 Fatty Acids, cis-Monounsaturated Fatty Acids, Saturated Fatty Acids, and Trans Fatty Acids. We also list the Omega-6:Omega-3 ratio and Arachidonic:EPA ratio. These are provided for reference only.

We offer two collection methods, blood tube or finger stick, which yield two different sample types, red blood cell (RBC) or  dried blood spot (DBS), respectively.  Both the RBC and the DBS tests include the HS-Omega-3 Index^® as well as the full fatty acid profile.  Since the fatty acid profiles of RBCs are different than those from a DBS sample, changes in the full fatty acid composition over time can only be reliably assessed by using the same method on the same patient.

The RBC based test is collected in a lavender top blood tube (EDTA), requires no preparation, and can be sent at ambient temperature. Each DBS kit has a Test Request Form specific to your account, collection instructions, sample collection booklet, contact-activated lancet, alcohol pad, cotton ball, adhesive bandage, plastic bag with desiccant packet, and paid return envelope.  Each DBS card is pre-treated with our proprietary anti-oxidant cocktail (OxyStop™) to assure sample integrity during shipment.  (See Methodologic Considerations for more information on OxyStop™)