Daily HealthBeat Tip - September 20, 2007

Check your levels

From the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, I'm Rand Gardner with HHS HealthBeat.

Do you remember your cholesterol levels from your last check-up? Where they good or bad? What about other blood tests?

Getting regular medical screenings can help keep you healthy, but only if you follow-up on lab tests and talk to your doctor about their meaning.

Director of HHS’ Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality, Dr. Carolyn Clancy:

“An abnormal test result, in some instances, can mean that the disease is making itself known before you otherwise have symptoms. So, those results can be a pretty important wake-up call.” (11 seconds)

The wake-up call means take action! You may need to make changes to your diet or lifestyle, such as exercise more often. Or your clinician may prescribe medications.

Taking an active interest in your lab tests will allow you to work with your health care provider to reduce your risks and improve your overall health.

Learn more at www.hhs.gov.

HHS HealthBeat is a production of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. I'm Rand Gardner.

Last revised: September, 20 2007