Three simple, non-invasive and quick tests will take 10 minutes of 2024’s 557 040 minutes – in a year, that’s only about 0.002% of your time. These tests will take mere minutes but provide very important health indicators for the year ahead.
None of the basic tests described below take more than a few minutes, which is negligible compared to the years of hardship you may face if these diseases are not detected early.
1. Blood pressure test.
Why it should be done.
To test for high blood pressure, also called hypertension.
Why it’s important.
According to the CDC (Center for Disease Control and Prevention), an accurate blood pressure test can provide a clearer picture of your risk for heart disease and stroke. High blood pressure is often referred to as the ‘silent killer’ as it has no clear warning signs.
How it’s done.
A small digital blood pressure monitor is used. You’ll feel some pressure on your arm, but it only takes about 1 minute to get a blood pressure measurement.
What happens next?
If your blood pressure is high, your doctor will assist you with medication if required and guide you on lifestyle changes needed. The test can also detect low blood pressure.
2. Blood sugar levels.
Why it should be done.
To test for prediabetes, diabetes, or gestational diabetes.
Why it’s important.
WebMD stresses the importance of having blood sugar levels tested, as undetected diabetes can result in heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, blindness, kidney disease, and skin problems.
How it’s done.
You’ll feel a small, sharp prick on your fingertip which provides a drop of blood on a test strip. The test strip goes into a meter which shows your blood sugar level in less than 15 seconds. The process should take a minute or two.
What happens next?
If your blood sugar level is high, your doctor may request further tests before advising you on lifestyle changes and if required, medication.
3. Body Mass Index (BMI).
Why it should be done.
The formula estimates your amount of body fat which helps to assess risk factors for certain conditions.
Why it’s important.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, high body fat can lead to heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes. Low body fat can indicate malnutrition. It’s important to note that BMI is not a complete health status indicator.
How it’s done.
Based on the BMI metrics table, weight in kilograms is divided by height in m2. The score provides an indication of whether you have a healthy weight for your height. The test can take about 3 minutes.
What happens next?
Should the test indicate some risk factors, you’ll be advised to see your doctor.
These tests are all quick, non-invasive, and important health indicators. If you have not included them on your ‘quick things to do’ list in 2024, pop into your Link store and talk to your Link pharmacist.
While all reasonable effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in this article, information may change or become dated, as new developments occur. The Link group shall not be held liable or accountable for the accuracy, completeness or correctness of any information for any purpose. No content in this article, irrespective of the date or reference source, should be viewed as a substitute for direct medical advice from your doctor, pharmacist or any other suitably qualified clinician.
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