Relationship DNA Tests

A trend that’s been gaining popularity is DNA testing for genetic purposes. In fact, it’s so prevalent that, according to Statista, this is a $340 million industry. DNA testing gives you the ability to get genetic analysis for any number of reasons, including ancestry, ethnic heritage, or family relationships.

Buyer Beware

You may have heard of private companies like 23andMe or AncestryDNA that do genetic screenings to determine what part of the world your family is from by utilizing a customer’s voluntary collection. However, these tests are under scrutiny because participation with them may pose privacy risks.

Your Privacy Matters

Having genetic testing done at a private testing facility like Any Lab Test Now® ensures confidentiality and discreetness with medical professionals. We do not share your information; we know these are personal matters. You own the test results and may proceed with them according to your needs. Plus, having testing done at Any Lab Test Now® allows you to use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

How Testing is Done

A DNA test at Any Lab Test Now® is a swab test done comparing samples to determine relationships. The lab can use algorithms to discover the possibility or probability of how people may be related at a certain level. There are any number of reasons that people get this testing done, but typically it’s for legal purposes, for example:

• Immigration — in cases where documentation is limited, if there is any doubt, go with the DNA.
• Custody agreements
• Paternity for child support
• Relationship proof for military benefits
• Determining true tax dependents
• Inheritance eligibility
• Genetic origins

There are a number of reliable tests provided at Any Lab Test Now®. It’s important to note that we offer both “informational” tests and “legal” tests for the probability of a relationship. The difference between the two types of tests is that if you need to use the results for legal purposes, the “legal” test ensures that results will stand up in a court of law.

Relationship DNA Testing at Any Lab Test Now®.

First are our maternity and paternity tests. These are tests used when a person is attempting to seek or deny child support, child custody, or visitation; seek medical, social security, or military benefits; add or remove a name from the child’s birth certificate and/or Voluntary Acknowledgement of Paternity; immigration; and adoption.

1. MATERNITY LEGAL this test compares the DNA of a child to the DNA of an Alleged Mother to determine the probability of maternity. This Chain of Custody DNA Maternity Test is legally admissible. It gives you an accurate determination (with an average probability of maternity of 99.9%) of who the child’s biological mother is.
2. MATERNITY INFORMATIONAL A Maternity DNA Test compares the DNA of a child to the DNA of an Alleged Mother to determine the probability of maternity. This is not a legally formal test but informational only.
   
3. PATERNITY LEGAL This test compares the DNA of a child to the DNA of an Alleged Father, and preferably the child’s mother, to determine the probability of paternity. It is legally admissible. The Chain of Custody DNA Paternity Test gives you an accurate determination (with an average probability of paternity of 99.9%) of who the child’s biological father is.
   
4. PATERNITY INFORMATIONAL (NON-LEGAL) A Paternity DNA Test compares the DNA between an Alleged Father and one child. We prefer the child’s mother’s participation in the Paternity DNA Test since she contributed 50% of her DNA to the child. Informational Paternity Test results cannot be used for any type of legal purpose, such as adding or removing a father’s name from the child’s birth certificate, child support, visitation, or other types of verified situations. Instead, it may provide the answers you were seeking.
   
5. GRANDPARENTAGE LEGAL A Grandpaternity DNA Test, also called a Grandparentage Test, compares the DNA from a child to his or her biological mother, as well as at least one biological paternal grandparent.  Since the alleged father inherited 1/2 of his DNA from his mother (grandmother) and 1/2 of his DNA from his father (grandfather), it is always preferable to include both biological grandparents in this type of DNA family relationship test. This is also legally admissible. With a DNA Grandpaternity Test, also known as a Grandparentage or Missing Parent Test, you can determine if a child is your biological grandchild or not. This test is an indirect way to determine a family relationship and is very useful when an alleged father is not available or unwilling to participate in a paternity test.
   
6. GRANDPARENTAGE INFORMATIONAL (NON-LEGAL) A Grandpaternity DNA Test, also called a Grandparentage Test, is conducted in the same manner and is an indirect way to determine a family relationship. It is very useful when an alleged father is not available or unwilling to participate in a paternity test.

7. GPS ORIGINS ANCESTRY TEST GPS (Geographic Population Structure) Origins will test for your story of human migration, your genetic origin percentages and history, and your ancestral migration routes and stories, all in digital form.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Resource for Improved Health

We have innovative testing designed to make your life easier. Whether you are interested in DNA testing for information or legal purposes, you can count on Any Lab Test Now® to provide a safe, confidential process to serve your needs. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month

March is Colorectal Cancer Awareness Month. It’s a reminder of an important mission we’re on at Any Lab Test Now® because we, as a company, have been personally and directly affected by this disease.

Colon cancer has few symptoms and begins as small, noncancerous cells called polyps that form on the inside of the colon — part of the digestive tract.

This Affects Us Deeply

Back in 2012, our friend and colleague Michelle Fields broke the news to us that at age 46, she was diagnosed with colon cancer. She was an integral part of our team here, and during her tenure, she assisted in opening more than 30 locations and supported franchisees in reaching their financial goals. She made the courageous decision to work throughout her treatment, and we were with her every step of the way. Sadly, our dear friend and colleague lost her battle after a four-year fight. Michelle died when she was just 50 years old.

Advances are Being Made to Help the Fight

Now, a decade after our friend’s diagnosis, a push by the Colorectal Cancer Alliance has changed the minimum age for colon cancer screenings because nearly 11% of new cases of colorectal cancer were occurring in people under 50. Age 50 had been the age formerly recommended for screenings. You may recall the high-profile death of “Black Panther” actor Chadwick Boseman who lost his battle with colon cancer back in 2020 when he was just 43 years old. Now the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) has changed its recommendation to begin screening at age 45 for prevention efforts and early detection.

Progressive Testing With Any Lab Test Now®

Here at Any Lab Test Now®, it is our passion project to encourage everyone aged 45 and older to have a colon cancer screening done. We ourselves are unveiling an innovative new screening for colon cancer, labeled Colorectal Cancer Screening (Blood) on our website. This is a blood test that looks for three different protein markers that are highly associated with the presence of colon cancer. Because this is a screening, it can show you if there is something immediately concerning. The benefit of this test is that it helps you know if there’s a problem, and if so — can lead to early treatment. EARLY DETECTION IS KEY.

The gold standard to determine if you have colon cancer is still a colonoscopy. But, our new test is ideal to help you decide if that step is necessary. We encourage you to be screened if you are 45 or older. However, our new blood screening option is only intended for those who are at average risk of colon cancer. 

According to the CDC, risk factors include:

• Inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis.
• A personal or family history of colorectal cancer or colorectal polyps.
• A genetic syndrome such as familial adenomatous polyposis (FAP).

And lifestyle factors like:

• Lack of regular physical activity
• A diet low in fruit and vegetables
• Poor diet with higher amounts of fats
• Overweight
• Alcohol consumption
• Tobacco use

The Colorectal Cancer Alliance reports that more than 150,000 people will be diagnosed with colon cancer in 2023. We at Any Lab Test Now® urge you to get screened for this preventable disease.

Testing that Works For You

Remember, at Any Lab Test Now®, we make this an easy experience for you. You do not need a doctor’s note to get lab testing done. We invite you to walk in for same-day testing during work-friendly hours.

The lab tests we provide are confidential, affordable, and convenient. You own the results, and you choose how to proceed with them. But we do encourage you to consult with a provider for further details to make the best decisions about your health. If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with Dial Care, a service that helps you find a provider licensed in your state.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

There are great innovations in medicine, like our new colon cancer screening, that can save your life. We are here to provide the lab tests you need for answers to your health concerns and optimum wellness. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

DNA Testing Benefits at Any Lab Test Now

Scientific research is an amazing thing. The intricacies and complexities of a research lab can translate to improved medicine for all of us. One such example is the Human Genome Project. This is most likely a term you’ve heard — but you may not know how it affects you.

The project started in 1990 and was completed in 2003. According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH), an international group of researchers was able to look at DNA and map out a human blueprint. The results? Our doctors now have a better understanding of certain diseases and how they can best be treated.

Cutting-Edge Pharmacogenetics Testing

This project has led to what the CDC calls precision medicine or pharmacogenetics — the study of how a person’s genes affect their response to certain medications. The goal of pharmacogenetics is to make your life better. Through pharmacogenetics testing, results show your provider which drugs and doses will be best suited to treat you for a myriad of conditions.

Drugs work with the body in several ways depending on how they are taken and where they act in your body. Think about something as simple as an over-the-counter pain reliever due to a headache, for example. Once you ingest the tablets, the body breaks them down with enzymes and then remarkably knows how to send that drug to your head to clear up the headache. It’s your DNA that affects the process and your body’s response.

Real Results to Improve Your Health

DNA testing can be a valuable tool to determine how you respond to drugs. If you think about the possibilities, genetic testing for medications can determine whether you may have a bad reaction to a drug or if a specific drug won’t be effective for you. This is a vital and helpful tool to know if a certain drug will be safe or beneficial to your wellness. It helps your provider prescribe medications tailored to work best based on your genetic makeup.

Advanced Testing at Any Lab Test Now®

That’s where Any Lab Test Now® comes in. We provide innovative ways to manage your health through comprehensive testing. We have a complete pharmacogenetic analysis at your disposal. The COMPREHENSIVE PGX PANEL tests for 50 different variations on 14 different genes and reports the effects an individual’s genotype may have on the response to over 200 commonly prescribed medications. This test uses the DNA collected from the buccal swabs to test a wide variety of genes that have been identified as having a significant clinical impact. Results are typically available within 5-7 days.

How This Helps Mental Health

So why take this test? Remember, results will help your provider know what meds work best for you and the dosing amounts. Think about how significant this is for anyone who is prescribed anti-depressant or anti-anxiety medications. Rather than providers taking a shot in the dark making you, the patient, go through weeks and months of trial and error — pharmacogenetics analysis eliminates the guessing game, as your provider will have advance knowledge of which prescription helps your condition with little or no side effects. Start feeling better, faster.

Prescribing Customized Anti-Depressants

The same is true when determining what prescription pain medication will be safest and most effective for you. The National Institutes of Health released a study on Genetic Testing for Opioid Pain Management. Chronic pain is one of the top issues patients discuss with their physicians. CYP2D6 is responsible for the metabolism of most of the commonly prescribed opiate medications like codeine, tramadol, hydrocodone, and oxycodone. Patients are classified by their genetic ability to metabolize a medication.

Cardiac Care Without Second Guessing

Pharmacogenetics testing can also advise physicians about the best medication per specific patient when it comes to cardiovascular disease. The NIH studied the use of DNA testing with medications involving blood thinners, blood pressure, and cholesterol.

Testing that Works for You

Any Lab Test Now® is your partner as you try to maintain health and wellness for you and your family. Whether it’s DNA testing or any of the thousands of tests we provide, remember, you can walk in for same-day testing during work-friendly hours.

How to Handle Your Test Results

The lab tests we provide are confidential, affordable, and convenient. You own the results, and you choose how to proceed with them. However, we encourage you to consult with a provider for further details to make the best decisions about your health. If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with Dial Care. This service can help you find a provider licensed in your state.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

Great innovations in medicine, like pharmacogenetics testing, give you options in healthcare. This testing is available at Any Lab Test Now®. We are here to provide the tests you need to get answers to your health concerns and foster optimum wellness. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

Get Tested Together

To help promote good health, here at Any Lab Test Now® we feel it is important to educate you about health issues that can affect your life. In doing so, we provide testing that allows you to be proactive and empowers you to manage your wellbeing .

Information About STDs/STIs

Up-to-date information about STDs/STIs is important to sexually active persons. Case in point—the terminology, STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases, is outdated. The stigma over the word “disease” is inaccurate in many cases regarding conditions that can occur through sexual transmission. Since innovations in medicine have provided many more treatments, better management, and often cures for these conditions, some STDs are also referred to as sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Why Testing is Important

Based on information from the CDC, STDs/STIs are very common, with millions of new infections occurring every year in the United States. These infections are passed along through intimate physical contact, including vaginal, oral, and anal sex. Some of the infections are silent, meaning you would have no telltale signs or symptoms that you’ve had exposure to an infection. Because of this, it’s good practice to receive testing for STDs/STIs not only for your health but to avoid passing an infection on to sexual partners. It’s important to remember that there are many new treatments, managements, and cures for some STIs, so do not be apprehensive about getting tested. Often, the sooner the infection is detected, and treatment begins, the more positive the outcome for your health.

Get Tested Together

If you are in a relationship, you and your partner may consider getting tested together. Any Lab Test Now® can assist you with a number of tests designed to give you the most accurate results in a reasonable amount of time.

Basic STD Panel

The same activities that lead you to be at risk for one particular STD can lead you to be at risk for all of them. That’s why we offer this basic, comprehensive panel which includes the following tests: 

• HIV
• RPR (Syphilis)
• GonorrheaChlamydia
• Herpes Simplex virus type 1 and type 2

Comprehensive STD Plus

The Comprehensive STD Plus panel tests use both urine and blood tests for a variety of sexually transmitted diseases at the same time. This helps to ensure you have been tested for many other infections that you may not have realized you were exposed to since you may not be symptomatic. The Comprehensive STD Plus includes the following tests:  

• HIV type 1 and type 2
• Hepatitis B
• Hepatitis C
• Syphilis
• Gonorrhea
• Herpes simplex virus type 1 and type 2
• Chlamydia
• Trichomonas vaginalis

Comprehensive STD Platinum Female Panel

The Comprehensive STD Platinum Female Panel tests for several sexually transmitted diseases at the same time. You’ll notice this test includes testing for HPV, human papillomavirus. Information published by the CDC says HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States. There are HPV vaccines available to prevent risk, but without protection against HPV, certain types can cause health issues like genital warts and cancers.

This panel includes the following tests:

• HIV 1 and 2 – 4th generation antigen/antibody that helps diagnose for HIV-1 and HIV-2 infection
• Hepatitis B – Causes serious liver infection by the hepatitis B virus
• Hepatitis C – Causes liver inflammation, possibly leading to serious liver damage
• Syphilis – A bacterial infection that is spread from person to person via skin or mucous membrane contact
• Gonorrhea – Sexually transmitted bacterium which can cause infections in the genitals, rectum, and throat
• Chlamydia – Sexually transmitted bacterium which can cause serious permanent damage to a woman’s reproductive system
• Herpes simplex virus (type 1 and type 2) – Infections that are transmitted through contact with HSV in herpes lesions, genital secretions, oral secretions, or mucosal secretions.
• Trichomonas vaginalis – This is an infection of a protozoan parasite that is contracted during sex
• Human papillomavirus (HPV) – This is the most common sexually transmitted infection.

Comprehensive STD Platinum Male Panel

The Comprehensive STD Platinum Male Panel tests for several sexually transmitted diseases at the same time. Like the Comprehensive Female Panel, this panel includes testing for HPV or the human papillomavirus. The CDC says HPV is the most common sexually transmitted infection (STI) in the United States, especially among young people. While there is a vaccine available, those who did not receive the vaccine are at increased risk of being infected with HPV. Certain types of this virus can remain silent; others can cause health issues like genital warts and cancers.

This panel includes the following tests:

1. HIV 1 and 2 – 4th generation antigen/antibody that helps diagnose for HIV-1 and HIV-2 infection
2. Hepatitis B – Causes serious liver infection by the hepatitis B virus
3. Hepatitis C – Causes liver inflammation, possibly leading to serious liver damage
4. Syphilis – A bacterial infection that is spread from person to person via skin or mucous membrane contact
5. Gonorrhea – Sexually transmitted bacterium which can cause infections in the genitals, rectum, and throat
6. Chlamydia – Sexually transmitted bacterium which can cause serious permanent damage to a woman’s reproductive system
7. Herpes simplex virus (type 1 and 2) – Infections that are transmitted through contact with HSV in herpes lesions, genital secretions, oral secretions, or mucosal secretions.
8. Trichomonas vaginalis – This is an infection of a protozoan parasite that is contracted during sex
9. Human papillomavirus (HPV) – This is the most common sexually transmitted infection.

How to Handle Your Test Results

The lab tests we provide are confidential, affordable, and convenient. You own the results, and you choose how to proceed with them. No matter what the results are, we encourage you to have a conversation with your provider about any next steps that may need to be taken.

If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with Dial Care. This service helps you find a provider licensed in your state.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

Staying well-informed about risk factors if you are sexually active is important. More important is ensuring your health through testing available at Any Lab Test Now®. We are here to provide the lab tests you need for answers to your health concerns and optimum wellness. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

Diabetes Meds Used for Weight Loss

For anyone who has ever battled weight loss, you know there are times you wish for a magic pill to take instead of putting in the hard work. There are fads and trends that come and go promising weight loss — and the latest one is creating a critical shortage of much-needed medication for type 2 diabetics.

The product is called semaglutide. It’s a form of insulin injected under the skin once a week using a pre-filled dosing pen. It’s used to control blood sugar levels for those with type 2 diabetes.

The Benefits for Diabetics

According to a report from Medline Plus, for diabetics, the insulin works by helping the pancreas release the right amount of insulin when blood sugar levels are high. Insulin helps move sugar from the blood into other body tissues, where it is used for energy. But it has also been shown to be an appetite suppressant.

Semaglutide is a synthetic form of a gut hormone that slows digestion. When that happens, you feel fuller for longer and consequently eat less. Studies have shown that some people can lose up to 15% of their body weight — leading the FDA to approve semaglutide for the treatment of obesity.

The Medication Misuse

And therein lies the problem. Because semaglutide was discovered to work in appetite suppression and weight loss in some patients, it has become a trendy weight loss drug for celebrities and social media influencers who began using it off-label. With so many non-diabetics using it for weight loss — it has created a shortage of the injectable for diabetics who need it. The supply simply cannot keep up with the increased demand.

Additionally, for those using the drug improperly, as in the case of someone who wasn’t prescribed this medication by their provider for type 2 diabetes or obesity — there are some severe side effects that can occur when using semaglutide as a fast track to weight loss. Those conditions include pancreatitis, kidney failure, and gallbladder disease.

A Dieting Solution from Any Lab Test Now®

Experts from Any Lab Test Now® remind you that the healthiest way to lose weight is through consistent lifestyle changes. The body has memory, and for those who utilize the weight loss trend du jour — when the diet stops, your body’s memory concerning metabolism and fat cells will come back with a vengeance. Yo-yo dieting actually works to increase your hunger over a period of time and can cause long-term health problems down the road.

A better solution to achieving your weight loss goals is to begin with obtaining an idea of how your body works metabolically, and the best way for you to reach your weight loss goals. Any Lab Test Now® provides two very effective tests to start you on your healthy weight loss journey.

Weight Management Tests

• First is the HEALTHY WEIGHT DNA TEST. This is a simple cheek swab that provides a great deal of valuable information for you. This scientifically based weight-management test identifies your unique genetic makeup and provides diet and exercise strategies customized to your genotype. 

You will receive personalized nutrition and fitness recommendations based on the results of this DNA test that are designed with your unique genetic markers associated with weight, metabolism, and body type.

• The second test to consider is the WEIGHT MANAGEMENT HORMONE TEST PANEL. There is scientific evidence that hormone imbalances may make it difficult to maintain your weight. This panel is designed to find any hormonal imbalances that could be affecting weight management.

For example, many people who find themselves stressed may discover that their metabolism is being affected by their cortisol levels. Cortisol is the stress hormone that affects how your body uses sugar. 

• When starting a weight loss program, it’s always a good idea to obtain a snapshot of your overall health to discover your baseline. As you begin making lifestyle changes for weight loss, the ANNUAL CHECK-UP PANEL consists of five tests that give a solid overview of where your health is now. This test can be repeated when you reach certain health or weight loss benchmarks to determine improvements in your overall health.

This test includes your blood counts, kidney function, liver function, electrolytes, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, and thyroid function values. This empowers you to manage your health.

You’re in Control of Your Health

Test results belong to you. However, we strongly encourage you to have a conversation with your provider about the results. If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with Dial Care. This service helps you find a provider licensed in your state to discuss results and any further testing or changes you may need to make to achieve your health goals.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Resource for Improved Health

If your goal is to achieve a healthy weight through customized lifestyle changes, Any Lab Test Now® is your partner in health. We are here to provide tests to help you and your family achieve your health and wellness goals. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

What’s Your Cellular Age?

As much as we’d all like to flee from aging, it is inevitable. Just as your car or a favorite clothing item will wear out over time, so too does the human body. Of course, the rate at which aging happens is different for each person and is based on a number of factors such as genetics, diet, exercise and stress.

On a cellular level, however, the rate of aging is measurable. Measurement is possible because of the telomeres that are connected to the end of your cells. Every time cells divide, the length of the telomere becomes shortened. The shorter the telomere is, the more times that particular cell has been copied. Over time, the telomere becomes so short that the cell no longer reproduces and is “retired”. This shortening of the telomere is known as cellular aging.

Through the use of a telomere test, labs are able to measure the length of the telomere in one’s body. This measurement is then compared to the expected length of telomeres in those of a similar age bracket, which helps determine overall cellular age.

While cell division and its subsequent retirement are natural processes, there are ways in which one can slow the process down. Among these are:

• Minimizing consumption of processed, surgery or fatty foods.
• Reducing body fat to 22 percent for women and 16 percent for men.
• Exercising for at least an hour a day.
• Reducing stress.
• Quitting smoking and other tobacco consumption.
• Sleeping eight hours a night.
• Increasing consumption of raw fruits and vegetables, Omega-3 fatty acids, vegetable protein, cold-water fish and fiber.
• Evaluating the need for nutritional supplements.

Next time you worry about getting older, consider monitoring the rate at which your cells age. With monitoring, you will be better able to make the lifestyle choices that are necessary to slow cellular aging, and potentially the onset of age-related diseases. Walk-in to Any Lab Test Now to ask for your Telomere Test today.

Now Means Now

We are a society that craves convenience. We don’t like to waste time, but when waiting for something we need and/or something we’re paying for, like healthcare, we usually don’t have a choice.

Based on the 2022 Survey of Physician Appointment Wait Times and Medicare and Medicaid Acceptance Rates, it takes about 26 days to get in to see a doctor if you’re a new patient. That number can increase exponentially for a specialist appointment. This information is based on research conducted regarding physician appointment times in 15 United States metropolitan cities.

Part of the reason it’s taking so long is due to the mass exodus of healthcare workers since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. Workers are spread thin and overtaxed, making appointments hard to come by because so many workers have left the healthcare industry, including physicians, specialists, and nurses. What that means for patients is that they may not be receiving the timely help they need when it comes to health and wellness.

A Convenient Solution

The good news is, at Any Lab Test Now®, you can receive prompt and efficient care concerning your healthcare needs. You do not need to make an appointment and we strive to get you in and out in 15 minutes or less. Some visits might be more involved and take a little longer, but care and convenience are our bottom line.

Any Lab Test Now® provides more than 8,000 lab tests. Those include anything from routine bloodwork to diagnostic and risk assessment tests. We can streamline any regular monitoring tests you need for acute and chronic conditions. For example, if you are on blood thinners and need weekly tests, or if you require testing before prescriptions can be refilled, or perhaps you are interested in monitoring your health and wellness.

What You Need to Know

At Any Lab Test Now®, we are dedicated to providing quality care on your time.

• No appointment necessary — but calling ahead for an appointment or scheduling online will ensure no wait time and streamline the appointment.

• Typically, results are ready in 24 to 72 hours; by mail, fax, or in some cases, email.

• Test results belong to you. You may choose to discuss the results with your provider. If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with Dial Care. This service helps you find a provider licensed in your state to discuss results and any further testing or changes you may need to make to achieve your health goals.

• Transparent pricing, HSA, FSA accepted, no insurance accepted.

But Wait, There’s More

Any Lab Test Now® is a committed partner in helping you manage your healthcare. That’s why we ensure a professional, compassionate, and non-judgmental environment. Your privacy is priority-one, and all test results are confidential. We only share results when you give written permission to do so.

We know the demand for better healthcare is growing. Taking care of health and wellness has never been a bigger priority for Americans. Data from McKinsey & Company shows wellness is taking precedence in daily life, with about half of U.S. consumers pushing it to the top spot. Any Lab Test Now® is here to help. We provide the opportunity to take control of your health and wellness and empower you to make educated decisions that directly affect your quality of life.

Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

Do You Know The Difference? Screening, Diagnostic, & Risk Assessment

The start of a new year is a great time to make some much-needed changes in your life. Perhaps you’ve resolved to making your health and wellness a top priority in 2023. If that’s the case, a good place to begin is with some testing to figure out your health baseline. This measurement is a good comparison tool for the future and will determine your next steps.

At Any Lab Test Now® we prioritize the health of you and your family. We provide hundreds of accurate and effective tests that you can utilize to gain better perspective of any potential health issues. Improving your health literacy by having a clear understanding about these tests will serve you well and empower you as you take control of your health.

When it comes to testing—there are three basic types: screenings, diagnostic and risk assessment.

Screening

Initially, you will want to have some screening tests done. This is your starting line. Think of a screening like you are in fact just taking a snapshot of your current health. The screening is a valuable tool to detect any possible red flags when it comes to your health. Screenings are quick, easy, and informative but typically, not definitive.

You may begin with a Comprehensive Metabolic Panel made up of 14 tests giving you an overall picture of your health. This is one of the most common blood tests available and it gives you a tremendous amount of information about your health. It is a great screening tool that can signal a problem area that needs to be addressed further by your provider.

Another good first check screening offered at Any Lab Test Now® is called the  Complete Blood Count or CBC. This test gives important information about the kind and the number of cells in your blood. While it’s a good screening capable of signaling abnormalities it can also be used as a diagnostic test.

For example, based on information from the American Society of Hematology, a CBC goes next level from screening test to diagnostic test. Depending on the red blood count from the CBC, it can diagnose if you have anemia which is a condition which occurs when you do not have enough red blood cells or when your red blood cells do not function properly. It is diagnosed when the CBC blood test shows a hemoglobin value of less than 13.5 gm/dl in a man or less than 12.0 gm/dl in a woman. If your hemoglobin is below these mentioned levels, the diagnosis is that you are anemic. This is an example of a screening test becoming a diagnostic tool. Keep in mind, though, there are more than 400 types of anemia. Additional testing would need to determine which of three groups of anemia you may have.

Another example of a screening offered at Any Lab Test Now® is the Prostate Specific Antigen (PSA). This antigen is a substance a man’s prostate gland produces. The blood test we conduct will measure PSA levels and if elevated, it may indicate prostate cancer or prostatitis (an enlarged prostate). It’s important to note that, this is not a diagnosis of cancer. This is a measurement of reference values indicating that the screening may have shown a higher-than-normal PSA, based on a range of numbers that are considered standard measure of a healthy prostate. But elevated values, don’t necessarily mean you have prostate cancer.  As a matter of fact, any trauma could skew those numbers. Anything from recently taking a horseback ride or a bike ride, can cause PSA to elevate. Abnormal levels indicate the need for more testing to diagnose the issue.

Diagnostic Testing

An interesting diagnostic test—meaning it is not a screening for pregnancy but rather a determinate of the baby’s gender, is the Gender Reveal test provided by  Any Lab Test Now®. This test stems from technology called the harmony test- it’s a genetic test, where the mother’s blood is filtered to pull out the baby’s cells to identify the gender. This test can be offered to new moms as early as 6 to 7 weeks into gestation, but to ensure the best results 8 weeks are recommended. This non-invasive prenatal test (NIPT) test has accuracy above 99%.

Risk Assessment

The last type we’re going to talk about today is risk assessment. These are screenings that you would take if you were in a risk category.  For example, the Heart Health Panel provides an overview of your heart health status. This panel can be used as a baseline assessment of your heart health and possible risk.  This is a test you may take if you have underlying health risks. Perhaps you are a smoker, or overweight or there is a history of heart disease in your family. You are at higher risk than someone who does not have these issues. The outcome of this screening is not a guarantee that you would, let’s say, have heart disease, but rather this provides awareness and valuable knowledge. It allows you to make health decisions that could perhaps combat the risk factors.

No matter what test or tests you utilize, we encourage you to have a conversation with your provider about the results. If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with Dial Care. This service helps you find a provider licensed in your state.

Start the New Year off Right

Whether you are looking for a baseline of your health, want to utilize diagnostic tests or assess your health risk factors, Any Lab Test Now® can help by providing the lab tests you need to get the answers you want. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

Check the Calendar: Use It or Lose It

As the year comes to an end, you might be reflecting on the last 12 months and deciding how you want to change things in the new year. Many of us use this opportunity to make a fresh start. For example, the most popular resolutions in 2022 were living healthier, personal improvement, happiness, and losing weight. Sound familiar? If your new year goals include boosting your health and wellness, Any Lab Test Now® can help you achieve those objectives.

This is a perfect time to get a snapshot of your overall health for two reasons:

1. To start the new year knowing what health issues you’ve got to address to become the best version of you.
2. Here’s your chance to utilize your HSA or FSA to pay for these health screenings — before you lose those savings.

Don’t Forget About That Piggy Bank

Providing answers about your and your family’s health through our screenings is a valuable tool for you to utilize. With the expenses of the holidays, you may be tempted to put these important health assessments off. But don’t. Remember, you’ve got that HSA health savings account or an FSA flexible spending account that you can use. Both are designed to help you cover your qualified out-of-pocket medical expenses with the available untaxed funds to reduce your healthcare costs. Screenings done at Any Lab Test Now® qualify.

Here’s the rub, most HSA plans will have the money you saved roll over into the new year. However, that is untrue with an FSA. With an FSA, you’ve got to use that money by the last day of December or lose the funds. Yep, check your account deadlines so you can use it or lose it!

Screening tests completed by Any Lab Test Now® are the ideal way to make use of those resources before the zero hour.

There is a plethora of specific tests you can schedule if you have concerns about particular health issues. But if you want a broader overall impression, consider some of the General Health Tests that Any Lab Test Now® can provide.

We offer a full range of clinical lab tests to support your well-being, all without having to spend time in a waiting room. From men’s and women’s health to hormone and fitness testing, our affordable wellness tests will fit your budget and lifestyle.

The Annual Check‐Up Panel is the perfect panel for evaluating your overall health. The panel consists of five tests typically ordered by a physician during an annual physical exam. These tests can establish your “baseline” consisting of all the numeric test results (levels), including your blood counts, kidney function, liver function, electrolytes, total cholesterol, triglycerides, HDL, LDL, and thyroid function values. Having this baseline means you can compare future levels to see how they are fluctuating.

Take Charge of Your Health

The answers you receive from your screening at Any Lab Test Now® are all part of our effort to help you be well-informed about the prevention and management of chronic and everyday illnesses and overall health for you and your loved ones. Increasing your health literacy puts you in the driver’s seat, better able to lead your health and wellness efforts.

Remember, at Any Lab Test Now®, the lab tests we provide are confidential, affordable, and convenient. You own the results, and you choose how to proceed with them, whether that means consulting with your provider for further details or perhaps the results give you the peace of mind you were seeking.

Obtaining lab testing through blood tests is a very precise indicator of your health. It tracks your overall well-being and can detect issues with organs or how well you are managing a disease. It is an important look at your overall wellness.

Any Lab Test Now® Has You Covered

As a reminder, with the holidays upon us, if you are traveling during the season or want to look out for the well-being of family and friends you visit, Any Lab Test Now® also provides testing for the most common respiratory ailments we see this time of year, including flu, strep, rsv, and COVID-19. Any services we provide are eligible under your HSA or FSA plan.

Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

“The More You Know… Lab Testing for Every Need”

National Flu Vaccine Week

It’s that time of year, when news agencies tell us the number of daily flu cases, and we hear the sneezing and coughing from people around us. Flu season is in full swing, and it’s predicted to be a severe one, according to health experts.

How do officials figure this stuff out? It’s actually quite interesting.

It’s Gonna Be a Bad Flu Season

Infectious disease and public health experts in the Northern hemisphere generally look at what happened in the Southern hemisphere as a predictor of where things will go during our winter. The Southern Hemisphere goes first, and based on how Australia’s flu season was, it’s gonna be rough. Australia experienced their worst flu season in five years.

Health officials say what may be partly to blame is that for a few years now, we haven’t really been exposed to the flu virus because of masking and Covid-19 restrictions, so our immunity decreases.

What is the Flu Virus?

The flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by influenza viruses that infect the nose, throat, and sometimes the lungs. According to the CDC, it can be a potentially serious disease that can lead to hospitalization and sometimes even death.

During typical flu seasons, millions of people will become sick, hundreds of thousands of people are hospitalized and thousands to tens of thousands of people die from flu-related causes.

If you’ve ever had the flu, you know you feel crummy for about 7-10 days. But there are times when it can develop into further health problems. Complications from the flu  can include bacterial pneumonia, ear infections, sinus infections and worsening of chronic medical conditions, such as congestive heart failure, asthma, or diabetes. Health officials warn–serious complications from the flu are more likely in babies and young children, pregnant women, older adults, and people with certain long-term health conditions.

Get Your Annual Flu Vaccine

But you can prevent the flu or the severity if you get your flu shot. Many people will get their flu vaccine beginning in September. You want protection to last through the peak of flu season which is February. This not only protects you but your loved ones and the community.

During National influenza Vaccination Week (December 6-12, 2022), the National Foundation for Infectious Diseases (NFID) is urging everyone age 6 months and older—if you haven’t already gotten your flu vaccine, it’s not too late, especially for those who are considered high risk, health-wise. The NFID is concerned, because a recent survey indicated that  only 49% of US adults plan to get a flu vaccine during the 2022-2023 flu season. 

That’s why it’s important to know that the best way to prevent flu is by getting a flu vaccine each year. The seasonal flu shot can lower the risk of getting the flu by about half. While some people who get a flu shot may still get sick with influenza, flu vaccination has been shown in several studies to reduce severity of illness. Contrary to what some may believe, the flu vaccine cannot cause the flu.

Protection with the Flu Vaccine

The Flu shot causes antibodies to develop in the body about two weeks after vaccination. These antibodies provide protection against flu illness.

Seasonal flu vaccines are designed to protect against the influenza viruses that researchers believe will be most common during the upcoming season. All flu vaccines in the United States are “quadrivalent” vaccines, which means they protect against four different flu viruses: an influenza A(H1N1) virus, an influenza A(H3N2) virus, and two influenza B viruses.

Officials say there are some new vaccines this season, designed for people 65 years and older that are recommended over standard dose.

The Flu Vaccine is Not Made for Everyone

There are some people who should not get the flu shot.

• Children younger than 6 months of age
• People with severe, life-threatening allergies to any ingredient in a flu vaccine (other than egg proteins).
• People who have had a severe allergic reaction to a dose of influenza vaccine, previously
• If you ever had Guillain-Barré Syndrome (a severe paralyzing illness, also called GBS). Talk to your doctor about your GBS history.
• If you are not feeling well, talk to your doctor about your symptoms.

Any Lab Test Now® Can Test for Flu

If you suspect you may be sick with the flu, or if you are travelling this holiday season and want to protect your friends and family members, Any Lab Test Now® is a resource for you. With so many different causes for similar illnesses, it can be difficult to know what the cause of any respiratory illness symptoms might be.

To determine if you have the flu or not, we provide our rapid flu influenza test. Results are available to you in 10 to 15 minutes and can help identify if symptoms are due to an infection with the influenza virus or not.  No matter the results, if you are sick with a respiratory virus, it’s always best to follow up with your healthcare provider to get appropriate treatment. If you need a provider, we’ve teamed up with DialCare to provide virtual licensed physicians at your fingertips.

Schedule an Appointment Today

Any Lab Test Now® is a resource you can use for your family’s health and wellness.  The lab tests we provide are confidential, affordable, and convenient. If you are feeling under the weather, get your flu test and the answers you need. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.