The 3 simple tests that can literally ‘save’ one’s life, as per Stanford trained doctor
Longevity, while often genetic, also heavily depends on how well one takes care of themselves, and not just once they reach a certain age. When it comes to living longer, diet, exercise, and remaining stress free are extremely important, along with regular check-ups that they one must get done periodically. And these blood tests do not always have to be complicated and expensive, as Dr. Saurabh Sethi, Gastroenterologist reveals. Dr Sethi, who is trained at Harvard and Stanford, recommends these 3 simple tests that can literally save one’s life. The combination of basic blood tests and imaging procedures, enables doctors to detect health issues at an early stage which prevents major complications and leads to better treatment results. Take a look…Lipid profileThe lipid profile test evaluates blood fat levels by measuring total cholesterol, LDL (“bad cholesterol”), HDL (“good cholesterol”) and triglycerides. According to Dr. Sethi, high cholesterol exists as a silent medical condition, which produces no warning signs, yet it raises your risk of experiencing fatal heart attacks and strokes, that kill millions of people worldwide. The test helps doctors detect hidden health threats which enable them to recommend dietary changes, and prescription medications.People who have cardiovascular disease in their family history, smokers and those with obesity or diabetes, should get their lipid profile tested regularly. The early treatment of abnormal lipid levels helps prevent artery damage, while managing plaque formation, which maintains heart and blood vessel health throughout life.Blood sugarBlood sugar tests measure blood glucose levels to diagnose diabetes and prediabetes conditions. Dr. Sethi explains that numerous people maintain elevated blood sugar levels, without knowing it until their condition leads to heart disease, kidney damage and nerve damage. The test helps doctors to diagnose diabetes at its early stage which enables better disease management and decreases the chances of developing serious medical problems.The fasting blood glucose test and HbA1c test serve as effective methods to measure your blood sugar control, during different time periods. People who are overweight or older than 40, and have diabetes in their family history, should get regular screening tests. Early detection of the disease enables patients to make dietary changes, and start exercise programs and receive medication when necessary, which helps control their condition and stops disease progression.
Bone Density TestThe DEXA scan performs bone density testing to determine bone strength and calcium levels. According to Dr. Sethi, bone density decreases with age starting at 40, which makes people more susceptible to fractures from minor accidents. The worldwide prevalence of osteoporosis requires bone density testing for early detection, which enables preventive measures to enhance bone density.
People with low bone density can improve their health, through a combination of calcium supplements, vitamin D pills and weight-bearing exercises and prescribed medical treatments. The test should be recommended especially to women have gone through menopause, and men who use steroids or smoke. Bone health protection enables people to maintain their ability to move, and their life quality, during their senior years.Dr. Sethi stresses that prevention stands as the essential foundation for maintaining good health, while recommending these basic screening tests to help people detect hidden health risks before symptoms emerge. These tests work together with lifestyle changes and medical check-ups to create a powerful system which extends your disease-free life span and maintains your active health.
