School is Back – Take Back Your Health

It’s that time of year–kids from preschool through college are heading back to school. This means it’s the perfect opportunity to do a re-set and focus on the family’s health, coinciding with National Health Center Week (August 9-15). What you may not realize is that Any Lab Test Now® is a “health center” giving you direct access to thousands of beneficial lab tests to ensure wellness.  

Useful Lab Tests For Concerned Parents

As your children head back to school, there are any number of lab tests you can utilize. Any Lab Test Now® is a family health center, we provide many lab tests to check a number of health concerns. Perhaps you’re unsettled, wondering if your son or daughter picked up bad habits over the summer—research shows more than 3,000 teens try marijuana for the first time every day.  

Parents who are worried their child could use or abuse drugs either in high school or while away at college can easily have their son or daughter tested.  Any Lab Test Now® does drug testing, no appointment necessary.  

For example, we may utilize a screening called a Blood 5-Panel Drug Test to determine the presence or absence of 5 types of drugs or their metabolites in the bloodstream. This blood drug test checks for the presence of 5 drug metabolites including:

1. Amphetamine/Methamphetamines
2. Marijuana
3. Cocaine
4. Opiates
5. Phencyclidine

Any Lab Test Now® can also conduct tests to see if someone has been vaping, a habit that the Surgeon General has declared an epidemic among youth. The choices parents have for Nicotine tests available at Any Lab Test Now® include:

• Urine Test:
  A  Good choice if a parent suspects the child has used nicotine over the last few days. An instant test is available, and parents can get results within five to ten minutes.
• Hair Follicle Test:
  A good option for parents who think their child has been either vaping or smoking nicotine for a long time, and the child might stop using just to get through the test. It takes 3 days for nicotine to start showing in hair strands.
   
• Blood Test:
  A simple blood draw can detect traces of nicotine about 2 hours after use.

Testing at Any Lab Test Now® is confidential. No one has access to results but parents. You own the results and you can even use an anonymous name to protect your child. Most importantly, the results give parents and other loved ones’ answers so they can take next steps if needed. 

You can’t put a price tag on peace of mind. Since thousands of kids are going off to college for the first time, it might not hurt to get basic testing done to make you as a parent know that you’ve done all you can to protect your child. 

Vaccine Immunity Check

Whether you have a young child going to daycare, preschool, grade school, high school, or college, there is one constant—making sure your child is current on vaccinations protecting them with everything from measles to chickenpox. Most states have laws requiring certain immunizations for school-aged children. 

Problem is, immunization records can get lost and often be difficult to track down, especially if you’ve moved over the years. Any Lab Test Now® can help. We can do a simple blood test called the MMR Titer that checks if you are immune to measles, mumps, and rubella by measuring your antibody levels, thus determining if your immunization is up-to-date. The results demonstrate whether or not your immune system has the capability to respond to an infection from one of the viruses.

Take Back Mom’s Health

Knowing the kids are taken care of is a sense of relief for parents. Especially for moms, it’s been a busy summer, running non-stop, taking the kids to swim practice, soccer camp, or a friend’s house, and now getting ready for school can be exhausting and stressful.  Any Lab Test Now® can run a Cortisol Test to see how much daily life stressors have been affecting mom’s overall health.  

Taking Charge of Your Health

Taking these proactive measures helps you advocate for your family’s health. It puts you in the driver’s seat. Blood work, after all, can provide many much-needed answers about our health. This trend is called healthcare consumerism. It’s all about giving people the tools and control to live their best, healthiest lives.  Take the control to say; I need this test done whether or not my insurance company will pay for it. 

If you are ready to check your family’s health as you head back to school, Any Lab Test Now® is the health center you’ve been looking for. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you to take back your health.

Mid-Year Resolution: Stick to Your Goals 

We’re at the halfway point to 2022 – can you believe it? It feels like each year gets faster, as life gets busier. As we prepare to take on the second half of the year, now is a good time to reflect on the first half. Did you meet your goals? What are you most proud of? What can you do better? Many people’s New Year’s resolutions have fizzled by now, and if that’s you, you aren’t alone! According to one survey, of the 41% of Americans who make resolutions, only 9% are successful in keeping them. 

Now, while that can be quite a discouraging number, there are a few reasons why, despite this, it’s considered a good thing to set New Year’s resolutions. Having resolutions sets intention with how you want to grow and develop in the coming year, it sets a tone of hopefulness and optimism, and you can start the year with a fresh sense of responsibility that hopefully flows in the months to come. It’s inherently a positive thing to strive for and has encouraging effects for yourself and those around you. 

Statistically, taking strides in your health, whether that means exercise or mental health, is one of the most popular resolutions. Each month, our blog highlights different health topics that may impact your life and provide a recommended blood test to bring awareness to the topic.

Cholesterol (Lipids) Panel 

This month, we want to emphasize the importance of cholesterol testing with our Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel®. The Lipids Panel can determine your cholesterol levels, which is important because this will tell you if you’re at risk for heart disease or any other heart issues. 

According to the CDC, nearly 94 million United States adults, 20 or older, have high cholesterol. There are two types of cholesterol, the good and the bad. The good absorbs the cholesterol and carries it back to the liver, and the liver then flushes it from the body. High levels of this type can lower your risk for heart disease and stroke. 

The bad makes up most of your body’s cholesterol, and high levels of this type can raise your risk for heart disease and stroke. The Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel® tests for both to determine whether you’re at risk or not. 

Your body needs cholesterol to build healthy cells, but high levels can increase your risk of heart disease. With high cholesterol, you can develop fatty deposits in your blood vessels. This makes it difficult for blood to flow through your arteries and can cause a heart attack or stroke. 

There are no symptoms. A blood test is the only way to know if you have it. 

With the Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel®, you’ll have your test results between 24 to 72 business hours. It’s recommended you fast before the test to ensure it’s accurate. Once you have your results, we encourage you to talk with your primary physician about the next steps.

Take Back Your Health

The overproduction of bad cholesterol can come from a variety of reasons. A lot of times, an unhealthy lifestyle is a huge contributor to producing more of the bad cholesterol. Some things to keep in mind are:

• Unhealthy diet
• Lack of physical activity
• Smoking or exposure to tobacco smoke 
• Hereditary 

To be 100% sure of your cholesterol status, start with one simple blood test at any of our neighborhood Any Lab Test Now® locations.

Renal Function Panel® 

Now is a great time to double down on your kidney health. Our Renal Function Panel® is a group of tests used to evaluate kidney function. According to the Mayo Clinic, some signs to look for if you think you’re experiencing kidney issues are:

• Nausea 
• Vomiting 
• Loss of appetite
• Fatigue and weakness
• Trouble sleeping 
• Urinating more or less
• Decreased mental sharpness
• Muscle cramps
• Swelling 
• Dry, itchy skin

The signs and symptoms of kidney issues are often nonspecific and could also be the source of a different issue altogether. However, it’s worth getting tested; simply because the damage from leaving your affected kidneys untreated can be irreversible. 

For this test, fasting for about eight hours prior to the blood draw is preferred. Your results will be ready between 24 to 72 business hours after the test.

Hepatic Function Panel® 

For this comprehensive panel, the Liver Function Panel®, or Hepatic Function®, measures the blood levels of seven tests that see how well your liver is working.

This test is also encouraged if you’ve been exposed to the hepatitis A, B, or C virus. High or low levels in one of the seven tests may indicate you have liver damage or liver disease is present. Some general symptoms, according to Healthline, include:

• Yellow skin (Jaundice)
• Dark urine
• Pale, bloody, or tarlike stool
• Swollen ankles, legs, or abdomen 
• Nausea 
• Vomiting
• Decrease in appetite
• Bruise easily
• Persistent fatigue
• Itchy skin

Something to keep in mind about this test and the one above is that anyone who is regularly taking medications can potentially benefit from these tests, as they’re typically required as a regular workup for anyone taking medication long-term.

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

The perfect test to have performed as a mid-year checkup is the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel®. This includes 14 essential tests that are part of a routine checkup or annual physical. It gives your doctor an overall picture of your health. 

Let’s talk about what’s looked at in this panel.

Your sodium, potassium, chloride, and carbon dioxide are all measured. Irregular values in these “electrolytes” can indicate trouble with your body’s salt/water or acid/base balance. Some common causes are dehydration, vomiting, medication, and kidney problems. 

Next are albumin, alkaline phosphatase, aspartate transaminase, and alanine transaminase. These are proteins and enzymes found in your blood; and can indicate liver damage or liver disease.

Lastly, your blood urea nitrogen, calcium, creatinine, and glucose are tested. This checks for a range of problems that affect your kidneys.

As one of the most common tests, it provides a plethora of information on your health.

Resolution Fatigue? Change Them!

If you’re feeling down because you aren’t meeting the goals you set at the beginning of the year, there is no shame in changing them for something more attainable. It can be something as simple as getting a blood test to check your cholesterol, liver function, kidneys, or more before the kids head back to school — because we know that’s right around the corner! 

With more than 200 locations across the country, you can make an appointment by phone or just walk in. we make it our priority to provide a convenient, safe, and confidential space for you to tackle your health. 

Click here to find the location closest to you.

It Takes Guts to Protect Your Digestive System


Gut health. Not exactly a sexy conversation starter, but definitely a conversation necessary to have. As 2022 continues with the objective to Take Control of Your Health®, don’t forget to include the not-so-flattering parts of our bodies. Initiate the conversation and start chatting about your digestive health. 

Did you know? More than 700,000 Americans are living with Crohn’s disease, 3 million Americans suffer from celiac disease, and 25 to 45 million Americans live with IBS. Many people living with symptoms are unaware of their current status causing a painful, lonely journey of figuring out which foods to avoid while suffering from debilitating symptoms. 

Proper Testing is Crucial

Crohn’s disease is a severe, chronic inflammatory bowel disease. It causes inflammation, ulcers, and bleeding to the digestive tract. There is no known cause, but research suggests that it may be genetic. 

Common symptoms include:

• Diarrhea
• Abdominal pain and cramps 
• Anemia and rectal bleeding 
• Weight Loss
• Fatigue 
• Nausea

If diagnosed with this condition, your doctor may advise you to avoid foods like dairy, highly seasoned foods, or high-fiber foods.

IBS is a disorder that leads to abdominal pain and bowel changes. It is the most common intestinal problem that causes patients to be referred to a gastroenterologist. Typically, IBS can occur after an infection of the intestines, but another trigger may be stress. 

Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain
• Gas
• Bloating

Celiac disease is an autoimmune disorder where the ingestion of gluten leads to damage in the small intestine. Those suffering from this disease cannot tolerate gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, rye, barley, and some oats. People with celiac disease deal with their immune system attacking their small intestine when they eat gluten. This damages the inner lining, which is used to absorb nutrients from food. 

Common symptoms include:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea or constipation
• Weight loss
• Nausea
• Fatigue 

If you’re suffering from any of these symptoms, living with them can be a hassle, but it can also result in a problem getting much worse.

An Ounce of Prevention is a Worth a Pound of Cure

One simple lab test can have you could be on the road to recovery with proper treatment from your doctor after a diagnosis. At Any Lab Test Now®, we offer the Celiac, IBS, and Crohn’s Array Test, or CICA. CICA measures your gut health on the genetic, antibody, and cellular levels. It’s a convenient test designed to give you answers whether your symptoms range from abdominal discomfort to severe pain. We provide the doctor’s order, and your results will be ready in just a few days. Once received,  discuss your results with your primary care physician for s personalized treatment plan. 

If you ever felt “off” after eating a meal or immediately experienced an upset stomach, acid reflux, heartburn stop wondering. It’s time to figure out what’s going on with your body. Many Americans are currently living with these life-damaging symptoms every day without even knowing they have these ailments. Don’t be one of them. During each month of 2022, Any Lab Test Now® is committed to highlighting and bringing awareness to important health screenings so you can take care of yourself from the inside out. These tests are extensive, and often inexpensive, providing a convenient, clean space that caters to everyone. From the stay-at-home mom to the on-the-go businessperson and the in-between, each person serves a vital role in our community and their health matters. 

 Get answers for your gut health today at any of the 200 Any Lab Test Now® locations.

Acknowledging Alcohol Addiction in America

Every April, we recognize Alcohol Awareness Month. We toast our successes. We drown our sorrows. It’s 5 o’clock somewhere! The world is filled with reasons to pour a drink, yet even a single drink can affect your body. And too much can have a long-lasting impact that isn’t always reversible. It can be a touchy subject. In a positive light, alcohol can be fun, flirty, and a reliable resource to have a good time. It’s often a must-have for major social events like bachelorette parties, weddings, and birthdays. Of course, every coin has two sides, and alcohol is no different. For some, alcohol is addictive. It can be damaging, messy, and used as an excuse for abhorrent behavior.

Did You Know? Alcohol remains the number one drug of choice for teens in America today. It’s more likely to kill young people than all illegal drugs combined. Alcohol Awareness Month is sponsored by the National Council on Alcoholism and Drug Dependence, this month encourages community organizations to host events to increase the public’s awareness and education that too much alcohol can do to you. 

SHORT-TERM HEALTH RISKS

Your liver is the largest organ in your body. It breaks down and filters out harmful substances in the blood and manufactures the proteins, enzymes, and hormones the body uses to ward off infections. 

When you indulge in excessive alcohol use, certain risks internally and externally are higher. 

• Injuries: car crashes, falls, drownings, and burns
• Violence: homicide, suicide, sexual assault, and partner/familial violence
• Alcohol poisoning 
• Miscarriage/stillbirth in pregnant women

All of the health risks stated above are devastating, life-altering consequences. At times, these ailments can be preventable. Alcohol fuels emotions, causing a person to perhaps do something more extreme than they would with a clear mind. In addition to short-term health risks, alcohol also comes with long-term health concerns. 

LONG-TERM HEALTH RISKS

• High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive issues 
• Cancer: breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, liver, colon, and rectum
• Weak immune system
• Dementia
• Depression and anxiety
• Social problems, family problems, and job-related problems
• Alcohol dependence

Any of the conditions laid out above can be severely damaging. Furthermore, alcohol-related disorders can impact every facet of the human life experience.  At Any Lab Test Now®, we offer a comprehensive test called the Hepatic Function Panel. It measures the blood levels with seven tests that you may want to see how well your liver is working. It’s encouraged if you’re suffering from symptoms related to liver disease, on medication that affects the liver, or if you’ve been exposed to hepatitis A, B, or C. 

The Liver Function Panel includes the following tests:

• Total protein
• Albumin
• Total bilirubin
• Direct bilirubin
• Alkaline phosphatase
• AST
• ALT

Labeled as the leading preventable cause of death in the United States by the CDC, excessive alcohol use is said to shorten the lives of those who die by a staggering 29 years. Alcohol abuse can also impact one’s mental health leading to symptoms of depression, bipolar disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder. Now is the best time to get ahead of your health. Liver function testing provides both you and your doctor the information needed to monitor the impact of alcohol on your body.

An Ounce of Prevention is a Worth a Pound of Cure

As we continue into 2022, it’s important to keep the momentum of self-care going. Any Lab Test Now® offers you extensive and inexpensive lab testing options, so you can keep living your best life. It’s our priority to make these tests as convenient as possible for working people. This is why we provide business-friendly hours, for those with busy schedules. Each of our 200+ locations nationwide provides a clean, safe facility for your lab testing needs. Book an appointment online or walk into your neighborhood Any Lab Test Now^®  to test your liver health. 

Break the Silence on the Silent Killer: Colon Cancer

We all know someone whose life has been touched by cancer. It’s a scary diagnosis that is generally followed up with treatment plans, support groups, and a journey of making peace with all the potential outcomes. By definition, cancer is a disease in which some of the body’s cells grow uncontrollably and spread to other parts of the body. Unfortunately, there are many types of cancer, and they can attack anywhere inside the body, which only adds to the terror surrounding the diagnosis. Many people, understandably, don’t want to talk about cancer. Much less, specific cancers like colorectal cancer. 

Colorectal cancer is a disease where the cells in the colon or rectum grow out of control. Before a person is even aware, it can move from one stage to the next, causing treatments to become more intense and high-risk. Our greatest ally in fighting this cancer is early testing. At Any Lab Test Now®, we can provide you with the Colon Cancer Screening (Fit) Test. It’s a simple, non-invasive test that checks for blood in your stool. It’s the best way to provide you with early detection of polyps that could result in colon cancer. A huge benefit of this test is that you can take it in the comfort of your own home with no prior preparations. A home collection kit can be picked up in-store or purchased online and shipped directly to your home.

The past two years of COVID-19 have left us deeply impacted, and for many, the focus on other important health screenings has taken a backseat. Don’t let testing fatigue stop you from protecting yourself against a disease that can be completely preventable, and if caught early, beatable. Colorectal cancer typically occurs in people ages 45 and older, but in recent years, the disease has begun to affect younger people as well. Every year, about 150,000 Americans are diagnosed with this disease, with an estimated 50,000 deaths. Often known as the silent killer, colorectal cancer may develop without symptoms.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, there are several symptoms to look out for, including:

• Changing bowel habits 
• Persistent abdominal discomfort
• Rectal bleeding
• Weakness/fatigue
• Unexplained weight loss

There are certain risk factors that make a person more likely to develop colorectal cancer. If you are experiencing any of the above it’s greatly encouraged that you get tested. Doing so could give you the peace of mind you need or even save your life. 

You are more at risk for colorectal cancer if:

• You’re over the age of 45
• You have had colorectal polyps or cancer in the past
• You have a family history of colorectal cancer (parents, siblings, or child)
• You have ulcerative colitis or Crohn’s disease
• Your diet is high in fat and low in calcium, fiber, and folate
• You smoke cigarettes
• You have certain genetic conditions

With the Colon Cancer Screening (Fit) Test from Any Lab Test Now®, you can take the test when it’s convenient for you in the privacy of your own home. We’ve all heard the horror stories that coincide with preparation for a colonoscopy. It’s fair to say that many people let that fear deter them from getting the test. Our home collection kit doesn’t require fasting or any other prep work. All you need to do is pick up the test, follow the instructions, and return the test for processing. Results generally take about five to seven business days.

According to the American Cancer Society, colorectal cancer is one the most common types of cancer in men and women. It is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths in the United States. Routine testing can help prevent or find cancer at an earlier stage when it might be easier to treat. If found early, the five-year survival rate increases by more than 90 percent, meaning many lives could be saved by the awareness that comes with increased testing. 

New Year, Better You

In honor of March being National Colorectal Cancer Awareness month, let’s continue making our health a priority as 2022 pushes on so that you’re the best you there is. The take-home Colon Cancer Screening (Fit) Test from Any Lab Test Now® is worth breaking the silence about. We provide transparent and inexpensive prices for customers with no insurance, high deductible insurance, or who simply want to proactively monitor their health.

Don’t Rely on Luck, Act Now to Protect Your Kidneys

March, the month when the ice begins to melt and the sun starts to shine through the heavy clouds of winter. The first day of spring encourages outdoor dining and lazy hammock lounging as we welcome the warm weather after the months of cold that have become all too familiar. In addition to looking forward to warmer weather, March features St. Patrick’s Day, National Reading Month, and an important one, National Kidney Month. Kidneys aren’t usually what comes to mind when you think of the third month of the year. However they’re hard at work the entire calendar year, so it’s only fair to recognize their efforts. 

Let’s Start With The Facts

Kidney disease affects 1 in 3 American adults, that’s 37 million adults! The unfortunate reality is that most people don’t even know it. Right now, 100,000 people are on the kidney transplant list. According to the World Health Organization, kidney disease is the 10th leading cause of death globally. 

What Is Kidney Disease?

Chronic kidney disease, or chronic renal disease, is a condition where you suffer from a gradual loss of kidney function over time. The disease includes conditions that damage your kidneys and decrease their ability to keep you healthy by filtering wastes from your blood. Kidney disease increases your risk of having heart and blood vessel disease. When kidney disease progresses, it can eventually lead to kidney failure, which requires dialysis or a kidney transplant to maintain life. 

If your kidneys worsen, you may start to feel sick and develop symptoms like:

• High blood pressure
• Anemia
• Weak bones
• Poor nutritional health
• Nerve damage

Risk Factors for Kidney Disease

Several factors can lead to kidney disease. Diabetes and high blood pressure are responsible for two-thirds of chronic kidney disease cases. Diabetes occurs when your blood sugar is too high. Over time, if unmanaged, it can cause damage to your kidneys, heart, blood vessels, nerves, and eyes. High blood pressure occurs when your blood pressure against the walls of your blood vessels increases. If poorly controlled, it can be a leading cause of heart attacks, strokes, and chronic kidney disease. Additionally, kidney stones or tumors can possibly lead to kidney damage, a well.

Unfortunately, chronic kidney disease can impact individuals at any age.
You could have an increased risk if you:

• Have a family history of kidney failure
• Are older in age
• Belong to a group with a high rate of diabetes or high blood pressure

Symptoms of Kidney Disease

Detecting chronic kidney disease can be tricky because the signs and symptoms of the disease typically occur later as the disease progresses. Something to also be mindful of is how symptoms can progress differently in men and women. For instance, urinary tract infections are more common in women, if the UTI travels to the kidneys it could put some women at greater risk for chronic kidney disease. In contrast, there are some cases where men may progress to end-stage renal disease or kidney failure faster.

While watching for late-stage symptoms won’t help with early detection, it’s important to be aware of the signs:

• Feeling exhausted, less energy
• Trouble concentrating
• Poor appetite 
• Trouble sleeping 
• Muscle cramping at night
• Swollen feet/ankles
• Puffiness around your eyes, especially in the morning 
• Dry, itchy skin
• Frequent urination, especially at night

Steps to a Healthy Kidney

Early detection and treatment can often keep kidney disease from getting worse. Now is the best time to make a commitment to yourself to keep your kidneys healthy. Any Lab Test Now’s Renal Function Panel is a group of tests used to evaluate kidney function.

This panel provides an affordable, convenient option for you to maintain your health. Minerals, electrolytes, proteins, and glucose are measured as part of this test. A simple blood draw is required, and no appointment is necessary. At Any Lab Test Now ^®, we pride ourselves on being accessible to the working person, so our locations have business-friendly hours. 

New Year, Better You!

There are many components to being diagnosed with chronic kidney disease. The root could come from several conditions like getting older, an autoimmune disease, or inherited diseases, but something you can do is get ahead of it. With early detection, you can save yourself from severe illness or even death. 

Once you get your test results, you can work with your primary physician to treat and improve the health of your kidneys. As we continue to battle COVID-19 fatigue, it’s easy to write off testing, especially for something that isn’t at the forefront of your mind. However, it’s vital to make your kidney health a priority. As a new season welcomes us, spring into action to care for your kidneys so you can live your life to the fullest. 

Any Lab Test Now ^® has more than 200 locations across the country. You can make an appointment online, by phone, or just walk in. Don’t rely on luck for good kidney health, click here for your nearest location. 

Getting a Gauge on Your Stress Levels

Let’s talk about the many faces of stress. Stress is being burned out at work, but feeling like you must persevere because of the pile of unpaid bills on the kitchen counter. Stress is making a family decision, knowing your in-laws will criticize it. It’s being stuck in bumper-to-bumper traffic while already 30 minutes late to an appointment. It’s realizing you have to figure out what you need to eat for dinner tonight and every night for the rest of your life. Many factors contribute to stress, so it’s best to stay aware of how your body is reacting to it.

For the last two years, our stress levels have heightened in the wake of the global pandemic. According to a new study from the American Psychological Association, 32 percent of Americans said they are so stressed about the pandemic that they struggle to make fundamental decisions such as what to wear or what to eat. It’s completely derailed many of our daily routines, making work and personal life infinitely harder to navigate. As our lives become more complicated, our bodies adjust, and not always in the healthiest way. 

We’ve all experienced it — whether an argument with your spouse or a work assignment that just isn’t going your way, our stress symptoms start as a response. Your heart starts racing, your muscles tighten, you get a stomachache. During a time like this, a hormone called cortisol (hydrocortisone) is going to work. Cortisol is released to help your body deal with stress, but it can be more harmful than helpful if your cortisol levels are too high or too low.

Cortisol is released by your adrenal glands, which are right above your kidneys. It also helps our bodies manage how we use carbohydrates, fats, proteins and controls our wake and sleep cycles. A study released one year after The World Health Organization announced the global pandemic states 67 percent of Americans reported unwanted changes in their sleep patterns. Cortisol suppresses what your body doesn’t need in a “fight-or-flight” situation. Essentially, it kicks in your instincts and is crucial to our survival. Of course, all things require balance, especially when it’s within your own body, so let’s look at what happens when your cortisol levels are unbalanced.

Too much cortisol can cause conditions like: 

• Hyperglycemia
• Obesity
• Decreased bone density
• Increased blood pressure
• Damage to the heart

Too little cortisol can cause the opposite effect:

• Weight loss
• Fatigue
• Diarrhea and vomiting
• Low blood pressure
• Loss of consciousness

Any of those symptoms above would add undesired effects to your life. If you’re currently experiencing any of these issues, it’s time to find out what’s going on. According to a 2021 health study, since the pandemic began, nearly half of Americans, a whopping 47 percent, said they have delayed or canceled their healthcare services. 

A Simple Solution

Any Lab Test Now^® is the best choice for a fast and safe health experience. We provide the doctor’s order so you can walk in without an appointment and choose from thousands of testing options.

 Our facilities offer affordable lab testing options to help both you and your doctors monitor your body’s response to stress. The Cortisol Lab Test is a blood test used to measure the level of cortisol in the blood. This test can provide an indication if your cortisol levels are too high or too low. Or try the Saliva Cortisol Test, which can determine your cortisol level via a saliva sample. 

New Year, Better You!

We’ve developed many unhealthy habits as COVID-19 has deterred us from being our best mentally and physically. However, you can make that change today. It’s time to focus on a new year and a better you! Take the first step towards better health in 2022 by testing your cortisol levels. Any Lab Test Now® has more than 200 locations available nationwide.

Click this link to find your nearest Any Lab Test Now and schedule an appointment.

Show Your Heart Some Love and Live Longer

When you think of February, images of hearts probably come to mind thanks to the celebration of Valentine’s Day on the 14th. In addition to emotional attention given to your significant other, friends, and family — it is your own heart you should show some love to at this time. February is American Heart Month – a federally designated awareness month to raise consciousness about heart health.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cardiovascular disease, which includes heart disease and stroke, is the leading cause of death across the globe. Every 42 seconds, someone has a heart attack, and each minute, in the United States, someone dies from a heart disease-related event. More than 17.3 million deaths are related to heart issues each year — a number expected to rise to more than 23.6 million within the next ten years.

What Is Heart Disease?

Heart disease is a blanket term that refers to several different heart conditions. The most common type of heart disease is coronary artery disease, which could lead to heart attacks. Most of the time, and for most people, the first sign or symptom of heart disease is chest pain. 

Heart attacks are often thought of as sudden, but the issue that causes them develops over time. A substance called plaque builds up inside of the arteries, and causes the arteries to narrow, which reduces blood flow to the heart, and eventually triggers a heart attack.

Risk Factors For Heart Disease

Almost half of all Americans (47 percent) have at least one risk factor for heart disease. However, some risk factors cannot be controlled, such as family history.

On the risk list are: 

• High Cholesterol
• High Blood Pressure
• Diabetes Or Pre-Diabetes
• Smoking
• Obesity

Steps to a Healthy Heart

While heart disease is not curable, the good news is that it can be treated and possibly prevented. Here are some preventative measures to help reduce your risk of heart disease.

• Eat a heart-healthy diet
• Stay active
• Quit smoking and stay away from secondhand smoke
• Control your cholesterol and blood pressure
• If you drink alcohol, drink only in moderation
• Manage stress

Make a Commitment to Your Heart Health

As you continue to set new goals this year, make a commitment to yourself to keep your heart healthy. The first step is to take action. The Any Lab Test Now® Heart Health Panel provides an affordable and convenient overview of your heart health status. This panel can be used to provide a baseline assessment of your cardiovascular health, to help you and your doctor evaluate and monitor possible risks. There are four components provided within the Any Lab Test Now® Heart Health Panel. 

They include:

• Lipoprotein Particle Protein Basic (LPP) – Overall cardiovascular risk assessment
• Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP) – Evaluate the body’s electrolyte balance and the status of major body organs
• C-Reactive Protein (CRP) High Sensitivity – Inflammation marker used to evaluate the risk of cardiovascular disease
• Homocysteine – Evaluate the risk of coronary heart disease, atherosclerosis, and other cardiovascular diseases

New Year, Better You!

While various heart problems may be inherited, many forms of heart disease can be prevented or treated with healthy lifestyle choices. Once you get your test results, you can work with a doctor on a plan to treat and improve the health of your heart. Between work, social activities, and taking care of a family, it may be easy to forget to take care of yourself.  However, it’s important to make sure your heart’s health is top-notch, especially if you’re the heart of the household.

Your cardiovascular system is important for your quality of life, so make February the month you take charge of your habits and make an improvement in your health. Any Lab Test Now® has more than 200 convenient locations across the country to help you Take Control of Your Health®. You can make an appointment online, or by phone, or just walk in.

Click here to find a location near you and start loving your heart and living your best life. 

The Need to Know on DNA Testing

Thanks to a surge in the sales of pregnancy tests, couples could soon be asking an important question. Who’s the father? An estimated 300,000 paternity tests are performed in the United States every year. Thanks to improved testing and technology, men and women no longer need to leave the paternity of a child in question. DNA tests provide simplified answers to the fatherhood question.

Check out the facts:

• Three percent of all fathers in the U.S. have no idea that a child they believe is their own is not their biological child. 
• About one in three men who take a paternity test will discover they are not the biological father.
• DNA tests, like those offered at Any Lab Test Now®, are 99.999 percent accurate.

Legally Admissible DNA Paternity Test

There are two kinds of paternity tests. The first is the legal forensic test, ordered by courts for child support and custody cases. One reason a court might order a DNA test is to rule out paternity fraud. This is when a woman intentionally leads a man into thinking that he is the father of her child, when in fact, she knows that he is not. Any Lab Test Now offers a Legally Admissible DNA Paternity Test. This test is required when a person attempts to seek or deny child support, child custody, or visitation; seek medical, social security. Or even receive military benefits; add or remove a name from the child’s birth certificate and/or voluntary acknowledgment of paternity, immigration, and adoption.

Informational Paternity

The second type of paternity testing is considered informational and cannot be used for a legal purpose. The Informational Paternity Test is discretionary and used for peace of mind. 

How Paternity Testing Works

The process is very simple and easy. For a Legally-Admissible Paternity Test, the father and child must come to the testing site in person. An Any Lab Test Now technician collects skin cells from the child and the alleged father from the inside of the mouth using a soft swab. The DNA of the potential father is analyzed to determine the probability that his genetic markers are found in the child. Test results are available in an average of three to five business days after specimens are collected from all tested parties.

For an Informational Paternity Test, participants have the option of in-person sampling or a home collection kit that can either be picked up at the lab location or purchased online. Once the kit arrives at your home, you can collect the samples yourself and ship them back to Any Lab Test Now for testing. 

Did You Know?

If the alleged father is deceased, Any Lab Test Now may still be able to help determine paternity. It will depend on the type of sample available or members of the alleged father’s bloodline who are willing to participate. This avenue is a blood sample that may have been collected by a medical examiner if an autopsy was performed. If no such samples are available, a specimen from a family member close to the alleged father, such as a biological brother, would also work.

Any Lab Test Now even offers an option for grandparents to help determine paternity with its Grandparentage test. This test is an indirect way to determine a family relationship and is very useful when an alleged father is unavailable or unwilling to participate in a paternity test.

Check out our FAQ page for answers to many frequently asked paternity questions.

DNA Testing is Easy 

Don’t let questions of genetic relationships remain unanswered. With Any Lab Test Now, you can rest easy knowing you’ve taken the proper paternity test for your needs. Your confidential results will be shared with you in a timely manner. 

Any Lab Test Now provides you with a safe and clean alternative location for lab work, including paternity testing. Each of our 190+ stores is sanitized several times a day, in accordance with the CDC’s protocols. Book an appointment online, or walk into an Any Lab Test Now location near you to find the answers to your paternity questions and ensure your child has a healthy future.

Cervical Cancer: Five Facts You Need to Know 

January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month.  Next to breast cancer, it’s the second most common type of cancer for women worldwide. In the United States, an estimated 14,480 women were diagnosed with cervical cancer in 2021. According to the American Cancer Society, more than 4,200 women will die because of this diagnosis.

Women of all ages are at risk of cervical cancer. This cancer forms in tissues of the cervix — the organ connecting the uterus and vagina. According to this study, most diagnoses occur in women between 35 and 44, with the average age of diagnosis being 50. About 20 percent of cervical cancers are diagnosed after age 65. Experts suspect it is because these women did not receive regular cervical cancer screenings before age 65.

Here are five important facts about cervical cancer you should know.

#1 – What Causes Cervical Cancer?
Cervical cancer is commonly caused by a form of human papillomavirus (HPV), a common virus that can be transmitted through sexual activity. HPV can be present for years without causing any symptoms and can be passed on to others without knowing. The Centers for Diseases Control reports more than 20 million people are currently infected with HPV worldwide, and another 6.2 million will contract the virus each year.

#2 – What are the Symptoms of Cervical Cancer?
Early-stage cervical cancer often presents no symptoms, which is why it is often referred to as a “silent killer.” But as the disease advances, signs and symptoms will be hard to ignore. Examples include pelvic pain, abnormal bleeding, painful urination, unusual discharge, abnormal menstrual cycles, pain or bleeding after sex, anemia, urinary incontinence, and back pain. 

#3 – When Should Cervical Cancer Screenings Start?
Experts at the American Cancer Society recommend women begin cervical cancer screenings at age 21, with women ages 30 to 65 being screened with both the Pap test and the HPV test annually. Most women who develop cervical cancer have not been screened in at least five years, and about half of them have never been screened in their lifetime. Screening allows for early detection, often allowing medical professionals to stop cervical cancer even before it starts. 

#4 – What are the Risk Factors for Cervical Cancer?
Several risk factors can increase your chance of developing cervical cancer. Women who smoke are about twice as likely as non-smokers to get cervical cancer.  Someone who became sexually active at a young age (younger than 18) or has many sexual partners. Research also suggests that long-term use of oral contraceptives can increase the risk. Family history can also be a factor. Women with a sister or mother who had cervical cancer are two to three times more likely to develop the disease. 

#5 – Can you Prevent Cervical Cancer?
Because cervical cancer is typically caused by HPV, the easiest way to prevent cervical cancer is to get an HPV vaccine. The vaccine helps your immune system create an antibody response that protects your body against the infection. A Pap smear can detect abnormal changes to the cervix before they develop into cancer. More than half of the women in the United States who get cervical cancer have never had or rarely had a Pap smear. Women need to make an appointment with a primary care physician or gynecologist to have this test completed. 

The HPV test is a screening test for cervical cancer. The test detects the presence of HPV. Unlike a Pap smear, a doctor’s appointment is not necessary. Any Lab Test Now offers  HPV Home Collection Kits available online for purchase. Women can take a vaginal swab in the privacy of their own homes. The HPV test from Any Lab Test Now is highly accurate, and test results are usually back within two to three days after the lab receives the specimen. A positive HPV test result can be alarming, but it does not mean cancer. However, it does require follow-up with your healthcare provider.

New Year, Better You…Take Care of Yourself 

Any Lab Test Now wants you to take care of yourself. We provide a safe and clean alternative location for lab work, including HPV testing to monitor signs of cervical cancer. Create a fresh start in 2022, utilize Any Lab Test Now for access to 8000+ lab testing options designed to help you monitor the health of your body. Each of our 200+ locations is sanitized several times a day, in accordance with recommended cleaning practices. 

We want you to Take Control of Your Health® when it comes to seeking out any type of lab work, including determining the health of your thyroid. Any Lab Test Now is a committed partner in helping you manage your family’s healthcare so you can make educated decisions that will directly affect your quality of life. 

Find your closest Any Lab Test Now store at www.anylabtestnow.com.