White Blood Cell Count (WBC)

Why is WBC important for your Healthspan?

‍WBC count is fundamental for assessing your body's immune capacity. These cells are your body's main line of defense against infections, inflammation, and other health challenges. An elevated WBC count can signal an active infection or inflammation, while a low count might indicate a weakened immune system, increasing susceptibility to illness. Maintaining a balanced WBC count supports a resilient immune response and contributes to long-term vitality and protection against various diseases.

‍What is WBC?

White Blood Cells (WBCs), also known as leukocytes, are a diverse group of cells that are a crucial component of your immune system. Unlike red blood cells, which carry oxygen, WBCs are involved in defending the body against foreign invaders such as bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites, and also play roles in managing inflammation and identifying abnormal cells. There are five main types of white blood cells—neutrophils, lymphocytes, monocytes, eosinophils, and basophils—each with specialized functions in the immune response. The WBC count measures the total number of these cells in a given volume of blood, providing a broad overview of your body's immune status and its ability to respond to various threats.

‍How do we take action?

If WBC count is outside the typical range, one should consult with a healthcare provider to investigate the underlying cause. An elevated WBC count (leukocytosis) most commonly indicates an active infection or inflammation, but can also be influenced by stress, allergies, or certain medications. A low WBC count (leukopenia) can increase vulnerability to infections and might stem from viral infections, autoimmune diseases, bone marrow issues, or side effects from specific treatments. Strategies involve addressing the diagnosed underlying condition, supporting overall immune health through a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and effective stress management, which helps maintain appropriate immune cell balance for a strong Healthspan.

‍Additional Sources

1. Tamakoshi, K., Toyoshima, H., Yatsuya, H., Matsushita, K., Okamura, T., Hayakawa, T., Okayama, A., Ueshima, H., & NIPPON DATA90 Research Group (2007). White blood cell count and risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in nationwide sample of Japanese--results from the NIPPON DATA90. Circulation journal : official journal of the Japanese Circulation Society, 71(4), 479–485. https://doi.org/10.1253/circj.71.479

2. Zheng, P., Chang, X., Lu, Q., & Liu, Y. (2013). Cytopenia and autoimmune diseases: a vicious cycle fueled by mTOR dysregulation in hematopoietic stem cells. Journal of autoimmunity, 41, 182–187. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jaut.2012.12.011

3. Cuglievan, B., DePombo, A., & De Angulo, G. (2016). Aplastic anemia: the correct nomenclature matters. Haematologica, 101(9), e391. https://doi.org/10.3324/haematol.2016.146522

4. Ruggiero, C., Metter, E. J., Cherubini, A., Maggio, M., Sen, R., Najjar, S. S., Windham, G. B., Ble, A., Senin, U., & Ferrucci, L. (2007). White blood cell count and mortality in the Baltimore Longitudinal Study of Aging. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, 49(18), 1841–1850. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.jacc.2007.01.076

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