Yorktest Laboratories have developed a new DIY test (cost £75) which is a much better predictor of heart disease or stroke than the current (very unreliable) cholesterol tests. It measures the blood level of a sulphur-bearing amino acid called homocysteine. High homocysteine levels indicate a fivefold increased risk of heart attack within five years. 30% of people with a history of heart attacks and 40% of people with a history of strokes have high homocysteine levels.

Excessively high levels of homocysteine can be reduced and controlled with vitamins, particularly folic acid, B6 and B12. For more information contact Yorktest on 0800 074 6185 www.yorktest.com