Attention, chocolate lovers: You may not be able to help yourselves. Swiss and British scientists have linked the widespread love of chocolate to a chemical "signature" that may be programmed into our metabolic systems.
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Complete Blood Count - CBC
Overview & Description
A CBC, also called a complete blood count, is a screening test used to diagnose and manage many diseases. A CBC measures the status of important features of the blood, including the following:
Who is a candidate for the test?
A CBC is a part of routine blood testing done with physical examinations. It is also used to help diagnose many disorders, including problems with your blood, heart, kidneys, and nutritional status.
How is the test performed?
A blood sample is taken from a vein on your forearm or hand. First, the skin over your vein is cleaned with an antiseptic. Next, a strong rubber tube, called a tourniquet, is wrapped around your upper arm. This enlarges the veins in your lower arm by restricting blood flow through them. A fine needle is gently inserted into a vein, and the tourniquet is removed. Blood flows from your vein through the needle and into a syringe or vial. After the needle is withdrawn, the puncture site is covered with a bandage for a short time. This helps stop or prevent bleeding at the site.