How often should I do a comprehensive blood test?

Annually as a baseline if everything is in range; every 3-6 months when actively changing something (TRT, weight loss protocol, training overhaul).

What's the difference between 'comprehensive' and a 'full body' test?

Marketing terms. Look at the actual marker list. If hormones (specifically free T, sensitive E2, LH, FSH, prolactin) are missing, it's not comprehensive for men.

Comprehensive Blood Test: What's Actually In It

'Comprehensive blood test' is a marketing phrase, not a clinical one. What's included varies wildly between providers. This is what should be in a genuinely comprehensive men's panel — and what it should cost.

What should a comprehensive men's blood test include?

Full blood count (FBC), urea, creatinine, eGFR, electrolytes (UEC), liver function (ALT, AST, GGT, ALP, bilirubin), full lipid profile (total, LDL, HDL, triglycerides, ApoB if available), HbA1c, fasting glucose, fasting insulin.

Hormones: total and calculated free testosterone, SHBG, sensitive oestradiol, LH, FSH, prolactin, DHEA-S, AM cortisol, TSH (plus free T4 and T3 if any thyroid signal).

Inflammation: hs-CRP, ESR, ferritin (also tracks iron stores).

Micronutrients: vitamin D, vitamin B12, folate.

What are the nice-to-have add-on tests?

Homocysteine, uric acid, ApoB and Lp(a), HOMA-IR (calculated from fasting glucose + insulin), magnesium, zinc, thyroid antibodies.

If symptoms warrant: cortisol-to-DHEA ratio, IGF-1, prostate-specific antigen (PSA, men 45+), iron studies for haemochromatosis screening.

What does a comprehensive blood test cost?

Australia private: AUD 600-1,500 for a true comprehensive panel through a private endocrinologist or men's-health clinic. Public pathway via GP gets you a partial panel free, but skips most of the hormone work.

FORM Bali: AUD 450-1,200 depending on package, with the MD consult included.

Function Health (US-only): USD 499/year for two draws.

FAQs

How often should I do a comprehensive blood test?: Annually as a baseline if everything is in range; every 3-6 months when actively changing something (TRT, weight loss protocol, training overhaul).
What's the difference between 'comprehensive' and a 'full body' test?: Marketing terms. Look at the actual marker list. If hormones (specifically free T, sensitive E2, LH, FSH, prolactin) are missing, it's not comprehensive for men.

See FORM's panels — every tier includes the non-negotiables above.

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