Hemoglobin (Hb) is a protein contained in red blood cells that helps transport oxygen to the body's tissues. The body regulates hemoglobin levels to ensure proper oxygen distribution. A hemoglobin test can be used to detect anemia, a condition caused by too few red blood cells.

Sometimes low levels of hemoglobin can be the result of iron deficiency; a ferritin test can be performed to estimate iron levels in your body. Heavy bleeding during periods may result in anemia and low hemoglobin levels. However a typical menstrual cycle should not affect your hemoglobin levels as measured by the Q-Pad test.

High hemoglobin counts usually occur when your body requires increased capacity to carry oxygen to your tissues, for example if you live at high altitudes and need to compensate for lower oxygen supply in the air. Long term living in high altitude conditions is generally protective against cardiovascular conditions.

Other reasons for high hemoglobin counts include smoking cigarettes, heart or lung disorders, or medications like eyrhthropoietin (EPO) that stimulate red blood cell production.