April 29 (Reuters) - Laboratory operator Labcorp ( LH )

beat analysts' estimate for first-quarter profit on Tuesday,

helped by robust demand for its diagnostic tests.

Healthy demand for non-urgent surgeries, especially among

older Americans, over the last few quarters has buoyed the

demand for diagnostic checkups.

Revenue from its diagnostic laboratories business grew 6% to

$2.63 billion during the period, even though it was negatively

impacted by adverse weather.

Labcorp ( LH ) and peer Quest Diagnostics ( DGX ) have also

benefited from deals to manage hospital labs as they seek market

share gains.

The North Carolina-based company's revenue rose 5.3% to

$3.35 billion, but missed analysts' average estimate of $3.40

billion, according to data compiled by LSEG.

Excluding one-off items, it earned $3.84 per share during

the quarter ended March 31, compared with the estimate of $3.74

per share.

"While the macroeconomic environment remains dynamic, the

critical nature of the work we do in diagnostics and drug

development positions us well for success in 2025 and beyond,"

CEO Adam Schechter said.

"We continue to progress our pipeline of attractive

acquisitions and partnerships and further expand our test menu

in four strategic areas, including oncology, women's health,

autoimmune disease and neurology."

Labcorp ( LH ) raised the lower end of its 2025 adjusted profit

forecast to $15.70 from $15.60 per share previously, keeping the

upper end unchanged at $16.40 per share.