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.

Common Substances Found in Recreational Drugs

Significant risks and dangers are involved with recreational drug use, and it is important to understand how these drugs work and why using them can be a hazard to your health.

The trends surrounding the use of cannabis edibles or nicotine vaping are more menacing than you may think, especially as alarming information continues to surface about these drugs being laced with uncontrolled levels of fentanyl.

Here are some common substances found in the most highly used recreational drugs:

Cannabis: Cannabis, also known as marijuana, contains the psychoactive compound delta-9-tetrahydrocannabinol (THC). It has relaxing and euphoric effects. It is approved for recreational use in 22 states and Washington D.C., however, there are no safety standards in place by the FDA. Those in the market to purchase forms of cannabis will often go to dispensaries for purchase. But with no regulation in place, ingestion of products can be dangerous and even deadly. Recent news stories report that what appear to be alleged credible retailers of cannabis may unknowingly sell products laced with fentanyl, which can be dangerous and deadly. The United States Drug Enforcement Agency (DEA) says fentanyl is a synthetic opioid that is up to 100 times stronger than morphine. It carries a high risk of overdose and can be lethal at the 2-milligram range.

Cocaine: Cocaine and other stimulants are resurfacing as popular drug choices. They produce short-lived intense euphoria and increased energy levels. Cocaine is illegal due to its highly addictive nature and potential for harmful health effects. Fentanyl is also commonly found concealed in cocaine.

Adderall: This is a commonly misused prescription drug. When prescribed by a physician, it is safe and effective. It’s typically prescribed for children and adults with attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). When used non-medically and illegally, it can be dangerous. The DEA has categorized Adderall as a Schedule II controlled substance, which means it carries a high potential for abuse and addiction. Amphetamines like Adderall are a class of stimulant drugs that include substances like amphetamine and methamphetamine. They can increase alertness, focus, and energy levels.

Opioids: Opioids include substances like heroin, morphine, and prescription painkillers such as oxycodone and fentanyl. These drugs either come from the opium poppy or are synthetically produced. Opioids create a sense of euphoria and pain relief. Opioids have a high potential for addiction and can be dangerous if misused. One of the biggest concerns these days is fentanyl, which can come in liquid and powder form. According to the CDC, even the tiniest dose can be deadly. More than 150 people die every day from overdoses related to synthetic opioids like fentanyl.

At Any Lab Test Now®, we offer lab testing that includes a number of drug screenings.

The 10 PANEL DRUG TEST (URINE) or 10 PANEL DRUG TEST INCLUDING EXPANDED OPIATES (URINE) will identify the presence or absence of 10 different classes of commonly abused or misused drugs or their metabolites. This lab test is a routine screen for each drug class, as well as any necessary confirmation testing. On average, most drugs are detectable in urine for approximately three days after the most recent use or exposure. A confirmed positive result for a drug or drug metabolite is considered evidence of use or exposure in that time period. Collection takes place at one of our lab testing centers.  

The Concern about E-Cigarettes Usage

Another rising trend, especially for kids, teens, and young adults is vape use. Recent data from the CDC reveals 2.5 million young people in the U.S. are vaping. After investigating e-cigarettes, the CDC found that 99% of e-cigarettes sold in assessed venues in the U.S. contain nicotine—a highly addictive substance.

Vaping can pose potential health risks, like respiratory problems, lung damage, and cardiovascular issues. The e-cigarette industry is relatively new, and regulations on manufacturing, labeling, and quality control vary across jurisdictions.

If you are concerned that your child is vaping, you can bring them to your nearest Any Lab Test Now® for a  COTININE DRUG TEST (NICOTINE METABOLITE) (URINE). This urine test will determine the presence of cotinine/nicotine in the system.

Cotinine is the metabolite or what is left after nicotine consumption and is the test of choice to evaluate active tobacco use or exposure to tobacco in many forms. Cotinine is more stable and has a longer life in the body than nicotine.

Confidentiality

We understand that being tested yourself or testing your child for the presence of drugs is a sensitive issue. 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

For parents reading this or if you are an adult with a recreational drug issue, know that Any Lab Test Now® is here to provide answers through lab testing. Call now to schedule an appointment at a testing center near you.

*If you are looking for help with substance abuse for yourself or a loved one, You can call the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

All About Alcoholism

Every day, 385 Americans die because of excessive alcohol use, according to the National Center for Drug Abuse Statistics. “Excessive” means, for women, four or more drinks in a single occasion, and for men, five drinks, as defined by the CDC. The challenge is that alcohol is an obtainable, legal substance for those 21 years or over.

Alcohol Trends

The numbers of people overusing alcohol skyrocketed during the stay-at-home orders at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, especially among women, according to the National Institutes of Health. However, new trends among millennials and Gen Z show a slight decrease in alcohol use with the advent of campaigns like “Dry January,” a challenge to stay sober at the kickoff of the new year. In addition, more “dry bars” are popping up around the country, giving patrons the fun atmosphere of a club without serving alcohol.

Underage Drinking

But concern continues to grow regarding underage drinking in the United States. Sobering statistics released by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism in 2021 indicate:

• 5.9 million youth ages 12 to 20 reported drinking alcohol beyond “just a few sips” in a one-month timeframe.
• 3.2 million youth ages 12 to 20 reported binge drinking at least once in a given month.
• Approximately 613,000 youth ages 12 to 20 reported binge drinking on five or more days in a given month.

These practices are not only against the law for those under the age of 21 and subject to legal consequences, but they are harmful to overall health.

Alcohol is a depressant, and when used in excess, it can be especially detrimental to young people because their brains are still developing and can interfere with cognitive, emotional, and behavioral health. It affects an adolescent’s ability to make good decisions, putting them at risk for impulsive behavior and impaired judgment. Alcohol can exacerbate mental health issues like anxiety and depression and lead to alcohol dependency and overuse. Alcohol use by minors can also hinder academic performance and strain relationships.

Health Effects of Alcohol Use

No matter what age, the CDC warns that there is a great potential for severe adverse reactions to long-term alcohol abuse, including:

• High blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, liver disease, and digestive problems.
• Cancer of the breast, mouth, throat, esophagus, voice box, liver, colon, and rectum.
• Weakening of the immune system, increasing the chances of getting sick.
• Learning and memory problems, including dementia and poor school or job performance.
• Mental health problems, including depression and anxiety.
• Social problems, including family problems, job-related problems, and unemployment.
• Alcohol use disorders or alcohol dependence.

Finding Answers

If you are a parent or have a loved one you are concerned about and need to know about alcohol use, Any Lab Test Now®can help. We are a lab testing center providing screenings and diagnostic testing to give you the answers you need. We offer a number of tests that can detect if a person has consumed alcohol within the last three days.

• 5 Panel Drug Test Plus ETG (Alcohol Metabolite)   – This urine test identifies the presence or absence of EtG — a metabolite that shows up if someone has had an alcoholic drink. This panel also includes testing for five (5) different classes of commonly abused or misused drugs or their metabolites.

• 9 Panel Drug Test Plus ETOH (ETHYL)  – This panel will identify the presence or absence of ethyl alcohol and nine (9) different classes of commonly abused or misused drugs or their metabolites. This urine test  includes a routine screen for each drug class, as well as any necessary confirmation testing. Ethyl alcohol may be detected in urine for up to 12 hours after consumption of alcohol-containing beverages. A confirmed positive result for ethyl alcohol is suggestive of recent alcohol use.

• 10 Panel Drug Test Plus ETG (Alcohol Metabolite)  – This urine test identifies the presence or absence of EtG plus ten (10) different classes of commonly abused or misused drugs or their metabolites. As a laboratory-based test, this panel includes a routine screen for each drug class, as well as any necessary confirmation testing. 

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

If you or someone you love may be dealing with an alcohol issue, Any Lab Test Now® is a testing center that can help provide answers you are seeking through a number of crucial lab tests. This is a judgment-free zone. We provide the lab testing; you own the results and can use them as you choose.

We understand that being tested yourself or testing your child for alcohol use is a sensitive issue. We provide the utmost care and discretion with these matters and adhere to strict HIPAA regulations.

We want you to be informed about the effects of alcohol on the body so that you can take the best care of yourself or a loved one. The first step is to obtain answers by coming to Any Lab Test Now®for tangible results. We are a lab testing center providing 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.

If you are seeking help for yourself or a loved one concerning alcohol use, contact the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) National Helpline at 1-800-662-4357.

Men’s Health Month

Men don’t like going to the doctor. This statement is not just an aphorism or cliché. In a recent study conducted by the Cleveland Clinic, 72% of men admitted they would rather do household chores, like cleaning the bathroom or mowing the lawn, than go to the doctor for preventative healthcare. And of those men who do routinely go to see their physician, 20% admit they are not completely honest with the doctor.

The research shows that the deterrent for men seeing a doctor could be anything from being embarrassed to not wanting to make nutritional or lifestyle changes like they know the doctor may greatly encourage. And this dismissive attitude is a health threat for men.

Higher Risk Factors for Men

According to research from the National Institutes of Health, mortality rates for men are higher than for women when it comes to preventable risk factors like smoking, high blood pressure, inactive lifestyle, and obesity. These factors lead to higher instances of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and certain cancers, like lung and prostate. A movement created in the United States to improve health and wellness, called Healthy People 2030, reports that, on average, men die five years earlier than women because of preventable health risks.

This is all the more reason that June is a particularly important month, focusing on men’s health. National Men’s Health Month is a motivator to encourage men to take better care of their health by eating right, exercising, and participating in preventative healthcare to improve overall wellness and reduce health risks.

Life-Saving Screenings for Men

There are many preventable health issues that can be managed with screenings and early detection, and that’s where Any Lab Test Now® comes in. We offer a number of tests that can screen for potential problems. These simple blood tests can provide a snapshot of your health and create a baseline for comparison in the future.

COMPREHENSIVE MALE PANEL – This panel is designed to provide a broad overview of your health. It includes blood counts, a metabolic panel, which includes kidney and liver functions, as well as heart health and hormone information. Men will also receive a PSA test to evaluate prostate health.

The Comprehensive Male Panel includes the following tests:

• CBC with Differential/Platelets
• Complete Metabolic Panel
• Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel
• PSA (Prostate Specific Antigen)
• Testosterone (Free and Total)
• TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
• HbA1C (Hemoglobin A1C)
• DHEA-S (Helps in the evaluation of your adrenal gland function)

The Importance of Male Hormone Health

Hormones are very important to overall health. Testosterone, found in women and men, plays a vital role in men’s health. Testosterone, usually thought of as a sex hormone, is essential for the production of sperm and to enhance sex drive. However, according to the Cleveland Clinic, testosterone also signals the male body to make new red blood cells and works to keep bones and muscles strong. It also provides men with a sense of well-being.

Testosterone, like all hormones in the body, fluctuates. Typically, testosterone levels are highest in the morning and decline throughout the day. Here’s why this is important to understand. If you are feeling fatigued, weak, depressed, or generally not yourself, The Comprehensive Male Panel provided by Any Lab Test Now® can be a game-changer. Having this test done may show some abnormalities in hormone levels, which may require further testing. Because hormones are cyclical and levels may see-saw throughout the day, further hormone testing may need to be done to pinpoint specific irregularities.

The Role of Vitamins in Men’s Health

Another screening to consider is our VITAMIN D testing. Low levels of vitamin D are associated with a significantly increased risk for coronary artery disease, peripheral arterial disease, stroke, diabetes mellitus, and many causes of mortality, which can be significantly higher risk factors in men.

Because vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, it interacts with and regulates more than 200 genes in the body and can help the body combat risk factors. The body absorbs vitamin D from the sun. If the screening test indicates you have low levels of vitamin D, your provider may recommend a supplement.

Looking Out for Your Health

At Any Lab Test Now®, we provide clear, concise, and understandable results within days of your tests. 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.

If you don’t have a provider and want to seek the guidance of a doctor, you also have the option to contact our partners at DialCare. This service allows you to consult with a provider in your state about your results. The clarity you receive from a medical professional can affect the way you handle your health and can be lifesaving.

Remember, you can use your Health Savings Account (HSA) or Flexible Spending Account (FSA) to cover the costs of diagnostic lab work from Any Lab Test Now®. Whether you are looking for a screening test for hormones or other health concerns, we have thousands of tests available to you, providing comprehensive health screenings that allow you to focus on your and your family’s health.

Utilizing our diagnostic lab testing will get you the answers you need. 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.

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.

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.