Life insurance blood tests

A life insurance blood test is a medical screening that insurers use to assess an applicant’s health and risk profile. Insurers test for glucose, cholesterol, HIV, hepatitis, cotinine (nicotine), and other markers using samples from the applicant.

Underwriters rely on these results to set premiums or determine eligibility. Blood tests detect medical conditions such as diabetes, high cholesterol, liver disease, kidney dysfunction, and some cancers, according to a report from YourInsurance.info.

Applicants must fast for 8-12 hours before most life insurance blood draws. Positive nicotine results lead to smokers’ rates that can be 50%–100% higher than nonsmoker rates.

Insurers typically perform blood tests alongside urine tests and vital sign checks during paramedical exams. Blood work remains valid for six months to one year with most major U.S.

Insurers, including Prudential and MetLife. Insurers sometimes waive blood tests for younger applicants seeking low coverage amounts; examples include Haven Life and Ladder Life policies under $1 million.

Elevated liver enzyme readings may trigger additional underwriting scrutiny or require supplemental physician statements. Insurers share adverse blood test results with the Medical Information Bureau (MIB), impacting future applications at other companies.