Time to Test: Rapid, Reliable Results

It’s time to have the conversation. As uncomfortable as it may be, it’s important to be aware of what the CDC is reporting as a rising trend of STDs, or sexually transmitted diseases, in the United States, with 2.5 million new reported cases. STDs affect many more millions of people worldwide, and yet, many individuals are unaware of their status. Knowing your status is essential for maintaining your health and preventing the spread of these infections.

Common Symptoms

In some cases, you may not even know you’ve been infected. You may be asymptomatic, or symptoms may go unnoticed until there are health complications or you get the news that a sexual partner has been diagnosed. The Mayo Clinic  says to look out for these symptoms that could indicate you have been infected through sexual transmission:

  • Sores or bumps on the genitals or in the oral or rectal area
  • Painful or burning urination
  • Discharge from the penis
  • Unusual or odorous vaginal discharge
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding
  • Pain during sex
  • Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin but sometimes more widespread
  • Lower abdominal pain
  • Fever
  • Rash over the trunk, hands, or feet

The difficulty in knowing whether or not you are infected is that symptoms may never appear, may appear years later, or a few days after exposure. The concern about STDs is that they can have serious health consequences if left untreated. Some STDs can cause infertility, chronic pain, and other long-term health problems. In addition, many STDs can be easily passed on to sexual partners, even when the infected person is not experiencing any symptoms. This means that people who have multiple sexual partners or who engage in unprotected sex are at an increased risk of contracting and spreading STDs.

Increasing Infections in the Senior Community

Another growing public health concern is the rising number of infections seen in the senior community. As we experience the largest population of older Americans, the baby boomers — officials are seeing a rising number of STIs in Americans aged 55+. In just under 10 years, officials have seen:

  • A 164% increase in gonorrhea
  • A 120% increase in syphilis
  • An 86% increase in chlamydia

Source: Everyday Health (2019).

Get Tested at Any Lab Test Now®

If you are sexually active, you should get tested regularly. Any Lab Test Now offers private, affordable, and convenient STD testing options for anyone looking to take control of their health. We understand that this can be a sensitive subject for many but we respect your privacy and take the utmost discretion. We follow all HIPAA regulations, which provides you with the peace of mind that you will receive a high standard of care with complete confidentiality.

We offer several testing options including: The Basic STD Panel, Comprehensive STD Plus, Comprehensive STD Platinum Female Panel, & Comprehensive STD Platinum Male Panel.

Need Same-Day Results?

We now offer two innovative tests that give you the answers you need in as little as 30 minutes!

Take Control of Your Health

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 information or sharing with a trusted advisor.

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

Colorectal Cancer Awareness

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 have a variety of screening options.

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

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 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. 

Testing that Works For You

Remember, at Any Lab Test Now®, we make testing easy 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.

 

Spring Allergies: Take Action With Lab Testing!

A sniffle here, a sneeze there. Our first thought is, “Uh-oh, I’m coming down with something.” But did you ever stop to consider what ails you may not be an illness at all, but an allergy?

Spring is the time of year when we all want to get outside and enjoy the mild temperatures and the beauty of the blossoming plants and trees. If you’re a seasonal allergy sufferer, you don’t need a calendar to tell you when winter is over; your nose probably will. If you can’t stop and smell the roses because you’re too busy sneezing and sniffling, then it’s probably time you switch up your wellness routine. Luckily,  Any Lab Test Now® is here to help with information on how to ease your allergy suffering.

Did you know?

  • About one quarter (25.7%) of adults and Nearly 1 in 5 children (18.9%) have a seasonal allergy 1
  • 4.1 million physician office visits with allergic rhinitis as the primary diagnosis 2
  • Allergies are the sixth leading cause of chronic illness in the U.S 3

Allergy Symptoms and Sources

The main source of allergies is pollen, which is a powdery substance produced by flowers and commonly found in trees, weeds, and grasses. If you have seasonal allergies, your body mistakes this harmless substance for something dangerous and tries to attack it.  An allergic reaction to pollen can cause symptoms like coughing, a runny or stuffy nose, and itchy, watery eyes. Seasonal allergies can be most serious when they impact your ability to sleep, contributing to a loss of productivity, so attending to the symptoms is important. One of the best ways to mitigate seasonal allergies is to add a quarterly allergy test to your wellness routine. Save yourself time and money using lab tests to pinpoint exactly what’s triggering your symptoms. The simplest way to do that is by taking advantage of the wide range of allergy testing we offer.

Pollen is not the season’s only trigger. With spring rains, there is more mold growth inside and outside your home. And spring cleaning will stir up dust mites throughout the house as well.

Here is a rundown of the top allergy-producing sources and when they cause the most issues:

  • Tree pollen typically appears in spring
  • Grasses shed pollen in late spring and summer
  • Mold spores often cause seasonal allergies during the spring, summer, and fall

The Allergy “Uglies”

Allergies can make you feel miserable. The symptoms may leave you feeling extremely sluggish and fatigued, which can impact other areas of your life, such as work or family time.  You can also experience the allergy “uglies,” which include puffy, saggy eyelids, watery eyes, and a red, runny nose. 

If we took a peek inside your medicine cabinet, what would it look like? If you are like a lot of people, your cabinet would be a jumble of allergy medicines, decongestants, and cough suppressants, with a few stray pain relievers and fever reducers rolling around. At Any Lab Test Now, we want to help you take control of your seasonal allergies by helping you identify your triggers with direct-access lab testing. The “ugly truth” is that without the right information, you are more likely to self-misdiagnose and purchase the wrong types of medications. Buying various remedies and medications isn’t cheap, and the cost can quickly add up. When your symptoms strike, will you be prepared?

How to Reduce Your Exposure to Allergens

Before you settle for plastic flowers, fake grass, or hiding indoors, there are some simple strategies to keep springtime allergies under control.

  • Keep your windows closed
  • Keep the grass cut short and avoid gardening chores that may stir up allergens
  • Quarterly allergy testing
  • Remove clothes you have worn outside and shower to rid pollen from your skin and hair
  • Brush off your pets after they have been outside to prevent allergens from coming inside with them
  • Check your local TV weather forecast for information on current pollen levels

An Ounce of Prevention is a Worth a Pound of Cure

Most doctors would agree that the first step in winning your battle against seasonal allergies is to know your triggers, and that’s where your local Any Lab Test Now can help. We offer a wide range of allergy testing that will help you fight back when it seems like your body is in revolt!

Any Lab Test Now® can help you determine the source of your springtime sniffles. Check out our wide range of allergy testing by clicking here. You can make an appointment or just walk into any one of our locations where a qualified medical assistant will perform a simple blood draw. There is no cure for allergies, but they can be managed. The next step is to discuss the results of your allergy test with your doctor so you can stop and smell the springtime flowers without sneezing!

Click here to find your local Any Lab Test Now®.

  1. CDC/National Center for Health Statistics (2023) ↩︎
  2. National Ambulatory Medical Care Survey (2019) ↩︎
  3. American College of Allergy, Asthma, and Immunology (2018) ↩︎

Hidden in Plain Sight – Drugs and Paraphernalia That Look Like Common Items

Substance misuse is on the rise, and along with it, an increasing trend of drugs and drug paraphernalia being disguised as everyday objects. This new form of concealment can be particularly alarming for parents, employers, educators, and anyone else who might be in proximity to someone using or abusing drugs. The ability of drug users to keep their habits covert, especially by using objects that look completely benign, challenges our conventional thinking about drug abuse and forces us to be more vigilant.

Be on the Lookout

One of the most prevalent techniques involves turning regular items into concealed drug containers. Items such as soda cans, candy wrappers, and even highlighter pens can be ingeniously modified to serve as drug storage. These items, when given a casual glance, do not arouse suspicion. For instance, a soda can might look and feel authentic, complete with the weight of a liquid inside. However, upon closer examination, one might find a concealed compartment that can be unscrewed to reveal a stash of drugs.

Household items are also not immune from this camouflage. This list of everyday objects that are often hollowed out or modified to store drugs is a stark reminder that sometimes, secrets can be hiding in the most ordinary-looking items like:

  • Books
  • Toiletries
  • Bedroom accessories
  • Alarm clocks
  • Batteries
  • Air freshener containers

Drug users might also use their clothing as inconspicuous storage. Shoes, especially those with thicker soles, can be modified to hide drugs. Hats with inner linings might contain concealed compartments, and belts can be manipulated for drug storage. The challenge is that these items, when worn, do not draw any attention to themselves, making the detection even more difficult.

Secret Hiding Places for Drugs and Equipment

Drug paraphernalia, too, is undergoing a transformation. Many drug-related tools and accessories are designed to look like regular objects. For instance, e-cigarettes and vape pens, which have gained immense popularity, especially among the younger demographic, can be used for vaping marijuana without producing the distinctive smell. They can easily be passed off as a regular vaping device. Other tools, like pipes and grinders, are being designed to resemble items such as car keys, lipsticks, or even mascara containers.

Disguised Drugs

Beyond just drugs and paraphernalia, synthetic or designer drugs also add to this landscape of deception. These are chemically engineered substances designed to produce similar effects to common illicit drugs. Due to their synthetic nature, they can be found in products that appear completely legal. They might be labeled as bath salts, herbal incense, or even plant food. Unsuspecting individuals might overlook these items, not realizing their potential for misuse.

The deceptive nature of these concealment techniques also makes detection much more challenging. Traditional methods of identifying drug use, such as looking for standard drug paraphernalia, might not be sufficient anymore. Parents, guardians, and educators must be more observant and aware of these innovative concealment methods to effectively address potential drug misuse.

The business world, too, needs to adapt. Employers, especially those in safety-sensitive industries, must reconsider and possibly revamp their drug detection and prevention strategies. Employee education, regular training sessions, and awareness programs can play a crucial role in ensuring that workplaces remain drug-free.

Finding Answers

Any Lab Test Now® is your partner in health. We’re here to help you by providing answers. We are a lab testing center that gives you the tangible results if you suspect someone you love or care about has been hiding drug use and you are seeking confirmation. We have lab tests that can screen for the presence of drugs.

Our DESIGNER STIMULANTS DRUG TEST PANEL includes 21 compounds that are often synthesized for illicit use and can go undetected in a common drug test. Abuse of designer stimulants continues to be a problem in the United States as they are easy to obtain and often produced with legal ingredients. This test includes seven newer-generation compounds that have recently been found in bath salts. Also included are 14 potentially dangerous designer stimulants that are known as Zombie or Zombie Drug, synthetic drugs, cathinone, White Lightning, Ivory Wave, Vanilla Sky, Cloud 9, Meph, MCat, Fake Cocaine, khat, khat leaves, Arabian tea, Eve, Ecstasy, Eden, or Legal X, among others.

The BASIC SYNTHETIC CANNABINOIDS DRUG TEST PANEL (K2/SPICE) that we offer is a Synthetic Marijuana Urine Drug Test that will test for the presence or absence of five variations of the designer drug known on the streets as “Spice” or “K2.” It is also known as “fake weed,” “Yucatan Fire,” and “legal bud.” Further testing may be necessary if you need a quantitative value. Spice and K2 are known as “fake marijuana,” but they will not be detected in a standard drug test.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

It’s important for you to know that Any Lab Test Now® is a judgment-free zone. We provide the lab testing; you own the results and can use them as you choose. You can also set up testing anonymously because we understand this is a sensitive issue. We provide the utmost care and discretion with these matters and adhere to strict HIPAA regulations.

Our service is about providing answers. Any Lab Test Now®is a lab testing center providing tangible results. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

If you know someone who needs help with an addiction, call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

STD/STI Risks for Young Adults

Although most states provide sex ed in public schools, it’s always good to talk to your teen or young adult about the risks associated with being sexually active. For many young people who may be experiencing independence for the first time, either heading off to college, living on their own, or starting their first job in a new career — embarking on these “firsts” can be challenging.

Navigating this unknown territory for young adults involves making decisions that can affect their overall health and well-being. The National Institutes of Health reports that this transitional time into a new life chapter is the ideal opportunity to emphasize long-term health, like implementing safe sex practices.

Health Risks Associated with STDs

Here’s why. Health issues associated with sexual contact disease transmission have reached epidemic proportions in the United States, according to the CDC. Cases of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), historically referred to as sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), like chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis, are on the upswing since 2020. The latest figures from 2021 show more than 2.5 million reported cases of STDs throughout the U.S

These are infections that can be transmitted through sexual contact, including vaginal, anal, and oral sex. They are caused by bacteria, viruses, parasites, and other microorganisms. STDs can be spread from one person to another during sexual activity, including intercourse without a condom, sharing of sex toys, and contact with infected body fluids.

Common STDs include:

  • Chlamydia: Caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, it is one of the most common bacterial STDs and can be asymptomatic in some cases.
  • Gonorrhea: Caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae, it can lead to serious complications if left untreated.
  • Human Papillomavirus (HPV): A viral infection that can cause genital warts and is linked to the development of certain cancers.
  • Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV): A viral infection causing genital herpes, which is characterized by painful sores or blisters in the genital or anal area.
  • Syphilis: Caused by the bacterium Treponema pallidum, syphilis can cause a wide range of symptoms if left untreated.
  • Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV): A viral infection that attacks the immune system, leading to acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS).
  • Trichomoniasis: Caused by the parasite Trichomonas vaginalis, it is one of the most common curable STDs.

Symptoms Are Problematic

The difficulty with STDs is that some are asymptomatic, so you don’t even know you’ve been infected, or you have mild symptoms that go unnoticed. Often people don’t learn about exposure unless a sexual partner has been diagnosed. The Mayo Clinic says to look out for these symptoms that could indicate you have been infected through sexual transmission:

  • Sores or bumps on the genitals or the oral or rectal area.
  • Painful or burning urination.
  • Discharge from the penis.
  • Unusual or odorous vaginal discharge.
  • Unusual vaginal bleeding.
  • Pain during sex.
  • Sore, swollen lymph nodes, particularly in the groin but sometimes more widespread.
  • Lower abdominal pain.
  • Fever
  • Rash over the trunk, hands, or feet.

STDs are tricky because symptoms may never appear or can appear years after being infected. But left untreated, some STDs can cause infertility, chronic pain, and other long-term health problems. In addition, many STDs can be easily passed on to sexual partners, even when the infected person is not experiencing any symptoms. This means that people who have multiple sexual partners or who engage in unprotected sex are at an increased risk of contracting and spreading STDs.

Any Lab Test Now® Screenings

For people who may not be practicing safe sex, getting regular STD screenings, and discussing sexual health with partners to reduce the risk of transmission is important. Early detection and treatment of STDs are crucial to prevent complications and further spread.

Any Lab Test Now® is a judgment-free zone. We are here to provide answers when you need them. Our STD PANEL, COMPREHENSIVE, is a screening test for infections that can be spread from one person to another through sexual contact. This panel looks for HIV, syphilis, herpes (HSV1 & HSV 2), gonorrhea, chlamydia, hepatitis B, and hepatitis C. If you are interested in testing for additional STDs, you should consider the COMPREHENSIVE STD PLUS. A blood sample and a urine sample are required for these tests. A vaginal swab (for females) may also be used.

The lab tests we provide are accurate, 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 discussing the results with sexual partners. We understand this is a sensitive issue, so we provide the utmost care and discretion with these matters, and adhere to strict HIPAA regulations.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

It’s important for young adults to understand the value of their health and make informed choices that support their well-being. We are here as a resource to obtain answers with tangible results. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

What Do Your Hormones Say About You?

Hormones are everything. They are responsible for keeping the body running efficiently. When there is a hormonal imbalance in your body — the body will let you know about it. Hormones tell the body what to do and when. Think of it as the bossy kid who’s telling everyone what to do on the playground!

The 411 on Hormones

Hormones are important in the body because they play a crucial role in regulating various bodily functions, including growth and development, metabolism, hunger, sleep, stress, sex drive reproduction, mood, and behavior.

Hormones are chemical messengers that are produced by various glands in the endocrine system, such as the pituitary gland, thyroid gland, adrenal glands, and reproductive organs. They are released into the bloodstream and travel to specific target cells or organs, where they bind to specific receptors and initiate a response.

For example, insulin is a hormone that regulates glucose levels in the blood, while thyroid hormones control metabolism and energy production. Testosterone and estrogen are hormones that are involved in sexual development and reproductive functions, and cortisol is a hormone that helps the body respond to stress.

Hormonal imbalances can have significant effects on overall health and well-being. For example, too much or too little of certain hormones can lead to conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, and infertility.

Your Body is Telling You Something

Here’s why hormones are important to understand. Anytime you might be feeling a bit “off” or not yourself, it’s your body responding to hormones. When levels are off balance, it can have an effect on your mood or your overall health. Listen to your body and get to the root of the problem because, depending on the issue, there could be treatment options that can make you feel better. Healthy hormonal balance ensures optimal bodily functions.

Hormone Testing to Keep You Healthy

Any Lab Test Now® can help. We provide a number of screenings that help determine if there are any irregularities in your hormone levels.

  • FOLLICLE STIMULATING HORMONE (FSH) – This blood test measures the amount of FSH, or a sex hormone produced by the pituitary gland, in your blood. In women, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates production of eggs and a hormone called estradiol during the first half of the menstrual cycle. In men, follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates production of sperm.
  • WEIGHT MANAGEMENT HORMONE TEST PANEL – Maintaining a healthy weight could actually be a hormone issue. Hormone imbalances may make it difficult to maintain your weight. This panel, obtained through a blood test, can help you and your healthcare provider understand any potential underlying hormonal imbalances that could affect weight gain, weight loss, or weight management.
  • CORTISOL HORMONE TEST (SALIVA) –This is not a blood test but rather a less invasive way to measure the level of cortisol in the body through saliva. Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and regulated by the hypothalamus, a part of the brain, and the pituitary gland. Your cortisol level stimulates liver glucose production, helps to maintain blood pressure, and regulates the immune system affecting inflammation. It also helps us react to physical and emotional stress.
  • THYROID STIMULATING HORMONE – The thyroid gland is responsible for regulating how your body uses energy. The thyroid also produces hormones critical to proper cell and system functioning.

Testing That Works For You

It’s important to remember that hormones are cyclical. So, when you have any hormone level testing done, it may show abnormalities that may need to be retested due to the cycle of the hormones at the time of the labs. Hormone cycles are an important part of the body’s natural functioning, but changes in hormone levels can have a significant impact on health and well-being. It’s important to be aware of how your body’s hormone cycles may be affecting you and to seek medical advice if you experience any unusual or concerning symptoms. Any Lab Test Now® is your partner as you work to maintain your health and wellness. Either we provide the doctor’s order for the lab test at no additional cost, or we accept your physician’s order.

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. We do encourage you to consult with your provider for further details and to make the best decisions about your health. If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with DialCare. This service helps you find a provider licensed in your state.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

No need to wonder or worry about what’s going on with your body. Any Lab Test Now ® can provide the answers you need. 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.

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”

Understanding Diabetes

When Karyn Wofford, the implementation manager at Any Lab Test Now, was 12 years old, what she thought was a case of homesickness at summer camp wound up being a life-threatening illness. She was at cheer camp when she suddenly dropped weight and became thirsty and irritable. While she was at camp, she chalked it up to wanting to get home. But, once she was home and even on a family vacation, her symptoms only got worse. Had it not been for her mom’s maternal instincts and quick thinking, Karyn’s outcome could have been much different.

Her mom took her to the doctor where she was diagnosed with type 1 diabetes — an autoimmune disease that can be deadly if not properly managed. They found out that while at cheer camp, Karyn was experiencing DKA or diabetic ketoacidosis. Her body wasn’t producing insulin properly, and she could have lapsed into a coma or even death.

She experienced many of the typical symptoms you might expect to see with type 1 diabetes.

Type 1 Diabetes Symptoms:

  • Comes on suddenly
  • Rapid weight loss
  • Thirsty all the time
  • Frequent urination
  • Irritability
  • Feeling tired and weak
  • Blurry vision

What You Need to Know

Karyn’s story is important to understand. As a parent, being aware of these symptoms is crucial for the health of your child. Often, especially in children, symptoms of diabetes can be misdiagnosed as flu or other common ailments.

Type 1 diabetes was once called juvenile diabetes or insulin-dependent diabetes because it is typically diagnosed during childhood or adolescence, but it CAN develop in adults. Diagnosis means your pancreas makes little or no insulin — a hormone needed by your body to allow sugar, or glucose, to be used for energy. 

There is no cure, but careful management allows type 1 diabetics to lead a normal life. Karyn, for example, uses a monitoring system to check her glucose level and has an attached insulin pump to continually regulate her blood sugar. The idea is to keep it at an acceptable level and not dip too low or soar too high. While she has had a few scares over the years, she has been living with type 1 diabetes for 20 years because she is very careful about what she eats and has a heightened awareness of her health.

Type 2 Diabetes

There is a second kind of diabetes, often referred to as adult-onset or type 2 diabetes. Unlike type 1, symptoms develop more slowly.

Symptoms of Type 2 Diabetes:

  • Increased thirst
  • Frequent urination
  • Increased hunger
  • Unintended weight loss
  • Fatigue
  • Blurred vision
  • Slow-healing sores
  • Frequent infections
  • Numbness or tingling in the hands or feet
  • Areas of darkened skin, usually in the armpits and neck

Type 2 diabetes is the most common type of diabetes and typically occurs in middle-aged or older people. It occurs when your blood sugar or blood glucose is too high. Again, glucose is vital to provide energy for your body, and cells get glucose from the food we eat. Insulin, a hormone produced by the pancreas, is needed to give the body that energy. When you have type 2 diabetes, your body doesn’t make or use insulin well. There’s too much sugar in the blood and not enough in the cells that need it.

Differences in Types of Diabetes

Type 1 Diabetes Causes:

  • Autoimmune response
  • Can be genetic
  • Can be caused by a virus

Type 2 Diabetes Causes/Risk Factors:

  • Family history
  • Overweight
  • High blood pressure
  • American Indian, Black or African American, Asian American, Hispanic/Latino, or Pacific Islander

Looking Out for Your Health

Karyn’s type 1 diabetes could not be prevented, but type 2 can. If you feel like you or a family member may be symptomatic or have certain risk factors, or if you want to take preventative measures to decrease your risk, the American Diabetes Association recommends the best medical test for diabetes is a glucose test through blood work.

Any Lab Test Now® can provide the answers you are looking for. We offer a Diabetes Maintenance Panel, which effectively tests diabetics and those who want to find out if they have diabetes. There are four tests in this panel, including:

  1. Complete Blood Count (CBC) – may show infection or anemia
  2. Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
  3. Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1C) – can detect pre-diabetes, diagnose, or see how well controlled it is
  4. Diabetic Urinalysis – will determine if there is protein in your urine, indicating improper kidney function.

Any Lab Test Now® is also a great resource for glucose testing.  We can conduct the Glucose (Serum) Test, also known as the Fasting Blood Glucose Test. This is the most common test used to diagnose hyperglycemia (higher than normal levels of blood sugar), hypoglycemia (lower than normal levels of blood sugar), and diabetes.

This test will determine if your blood glucose level is within a healthy range. It will also screen for, diagnose, and monitor pre‐diabetes, diabetes, hyperglycemia, and hypoglycemia.

Understanding Diabetes

Diabetes, whether type 1, like Karyn’s, or type 2, is more prevalent than you might think. There are an estimated 37 million Americans who have some form of diabetes. Numbers show that one in every three Americans, or 96 million people, have a condition known as pre-diabetes.

Pre-diabetes means your blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not high enough to be diagnosed as diabetes. Over time, if uncontrolled, you could develop type 2 diabetes.

Education and Prevention

Being aware of the symptoms and risk factors of diabetes is a great first step to taking charge of your health. Left untreated, type 2 diabetes can lead to complications with other body systems and organs,including your heart, blood vessels, nerves, eyes, and kidneys.

Not only can you change your diet and exercise to live a healthier life and possibly prevent type 2 diabetes, but it’s important to understand your body and put your wellness first. Utilizing the screenings at Any Lab Test Now® will provide the answers you need — whether that’s giving you peace of mind, alerting you to a problem that may need further evaluation from your physician, or providing a diabetes monitoring system — we are able to serve your needs.

You may choose to discuss your results further with a healthcare professional to give you guidance about medications or diabetes management, but you do not need an order from your doctor to have testing done. We provide the doctor’s orders!

Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you to take back your health.

Breast Cancer Awareness Month

When the calendar flips to the month of October, it’s not just pumpkins and mums that are symbolic of this month. We’ve all become accustomed to the pink ribbons seen practically everywhere representing the campaign to fight breast cancer.

Breast cancer receives global attention because it is the most common cancer worldwide, according to the Mayo Clinic, and the most common cancer diagnosed in the United States.

The Top Cancers in the United States

Breast, lung, prostate, and colorectal cancers account for almost 50% of all new cancer cases in the U.S., based on stats from the National Cancer Institute.  Lung and bronchus, colorectal, pancreatic, and breast cancers are responsible for nearly 50% of all deaths.

In 2022, invasive breast cancer is estimated to be newly diagnosed in 287,850 women, as incidence rates continue to increase by about 0.5% annually. 

#FightLikeAGirl

So, when you see publicity about Pink Week, otherwise known as Breast Cancer Awareness Week (October 4–6), and Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, this campaign is designed to educate about the need for screenings and early detection opportunities that can save lives. There is substantial research funding for breast cancer which has helped create advances in its diagnosis and treatment. Thanks to growing awareness campaigns regarding breast cancer over the years, fewer American women are dying from it. Deaths from breast cancer are down 42% over a 30-year period.

However, there’s a long way to go. While many nations are seeing a significant reduction in deaths, globally, there is still a great need for preventative measures in low-resource countries. The World Health Organization says breast cancer is the most common cancer in the world, impacting an estimated 2.3 million people.

Breast Cancer Basics

The American Cancer Society defines cancer as a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells that can result in death if not treated.

Breast cancer itself can occur in the lining cells (epithelium) of the ducts (85%) or lobules (15%) in the glandular tissue of the breast.

Breast cancer most commonly presents as a painless lump or thickening in the breast. If you find a lump, see your healthcare provider. Early diagnosis can often be the key to successful treatment.

If it progresses, it can attack the surrounding breast tissue and become invasive and spread or metastasize to lymph nodes or other organs.

Early Detection Leads to Cures

Early detection is the best defense. That’s why the American Cancer Society stresses the need for a baseline mammogram for women at age 40 with annual mammogram screenings for women ages 45 to 54.

At Any Lab Test Now®, we believe strongly in blood tests used for screening purposes to improve your health. We believe our job is to educate you and your family on the prevention and management of chronic and everyday illnesses.

Any Lab Test Now® has a few very useful tools:

  • One option is the Comprehensive Female Panel, which provides a snapshot of your overall health. This panel is designed for women at all stages of their life to help them make informed decisions about their healthcare goals.
  • Another breast cancer test is a screening called the Breast Cancer Monitoring Panel. It’s important to understand this is a monitoring tool, not a diagnostic tool. It does not tell you if you have breast cancer. It provides vital information that you can use in tandem with personalized care from your physician. This is a combination of three tests. The CA 15‐3 and CA 27.29 are proteins that are normally produced by breast cells. In persons with breast cancer, the levels can increase. The protein amounts can rise with breast cancer tumor growth and fall with treatment. The carcinoembryonic antigen is a protein that may be present in people with cancer, including breast cancer. The CEA Test measures the amount of this protein in your blood. CEA is normally detected in healthy adults but at a certain range.

Take Charge of Your Health

Having routine breast screenings through mammograms or lab testing is a game-changer. Early detection means better breast cancer treatment options like surgery, radiation, or medication. These can be highly effective, especially when the disease is identified early.

Not only can you stay on top of your health through screenings, but there are also behavioral measures you can take to reduce your risk of breast cancer, including:

  • prolonged breastfeeding
  • regular physical activity
  • weight control
  • avoidance of harmful use of alcohol
  • avoidance of exposure to tobacco smoke
  • avoidance of prolonged use of hormones  
  • avoidance of excessive radiation exposure

There are more than 3.1 million breast cancer survivors in the U.S., including women still being treated and those who have finished treatment, proving that campaigns like Breast Cancer Awareness Month are working.

Wellness Screenings With Any Lab Test Now®

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. 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, can detect issues with organs or how well you are managing a disease. It is an important look at your overall wellness.

Stay on top of your family’s health by taking charge of your wellness. Any Lab Test Now® can help by providing the lab tests you need to ensure your health. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.