Ferritin ( Iron Levels ) Test in Cambridge

The Ferritin test measures the amount of ferritin in your blood, a protein that stores iron and releases it when your body needs it. Ferritin levels reflect your total iron reserves, making this the most reliable test for detecting iron deficiency or iron overload before symptoms become severe. A simple finger-prick sample is all that is needed, with no fasting required.

Who Should Get Tested?

Iron deficiency anaemia affects 3% of men and 8% of women in the UK, causing over 57,000 emergency hospital admissions per year. You should consider a ferritin test if you experience persistent tiredness or fatigue, weakness, dizziness, pale skin, unexplained hair loss, shortness of breath, cold hands and feet, restless legs, or rapid heartbeat. Women with heavy periods, vegetarians and vegans, pregnant women, and anyone with a family history of haemochromatosis (iron overload) should also monitor their levels.

Understanding Your Results

Low ferritin is often the earliest indicator of iron deficiency, even before anaemia develops. High levels may suggest iron overload, chronic inflammation, or liver disease. Your clinic team will explain your result and advise on supplementation or further investigation.