Key Factors to Consider When Life Insurance Requires Blood Tests and Drug Screening

What insurers assess in blood tests and drug screens

Life insurers use blood tests and drug screenings to gauge health risks, focusing on cholesterol, blood sugar, liver and kidney function, and the presence of illegal or prescription drugs that may affect longevity.

Critical health markers

Key blood metrics include:

• Low‑density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol – high levels raise heart disease risk.
• Hemoglobin A1c – indicates average blood sugar and diabetes risk.
• Alanine transaminase (ALT) and aspartate transaminase (AST) – liver enzyme levels reveal liver health.
• Creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) – assess kidney function.

Drug use considerations

Screening detects illicit substances (e.g., cocaine, heroin) and evaluates prescribed medications that could signal chronic conditions or increased mortality, such as opioids, certain antidepressants, or chemotherapy agents.

Disclosing prescription drugs

Applicants must list all prescribed medications; failure to disclose can lead to denial or policy rescission. Insurers review dosage, duration, and underlying conditions linked to the drugs.

Preparing for the test

To ensure accurate results, avoid non‑prescribed substances, follow fasting instructions if required, and bring a complete medication list. Discuss any recent changes in health or treatment with the insurer beforehand.

Comparison of common test outcomes