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.

 

Why Should You Choose Any Lab Test Now?

Knowing how to navigate healthcare services is key to prioritizing wellness for you and your family. And lab testing is a vital component of managing your health. Any Lab Test Now® strives to keep healthcare as straightforward and convenient for you as possible. With over 225 locations across the country, we make lab testing accessible, confidential, and hassle-free. Let’s delve into why Any Lab Test Now® is your go-to choice for all your lab testing needs.

No Doctor’s Order Needed

Say goodbye to long waits for doctor’s appointments just to get lab tests. At Any Lab Test Now®, a physician oversees our tests and results at each location, but we also welcome orders from your own doctor. You have direct access to a wide array of tests for routine health, specific concerns, or wellness checks. Walk in or schedule an appointment at your convenience and take control of your health journey on your terms.

You Own Your Results

Transparency and empowerment are at the heart of what we do. When you use our services, you get full ownership of your test results. This means you have the freedom to consult with any healthcare provider, seek additional opinions, or keep your results for personal reference. Your health data stays in your hands, enabling you to make informed decisions about your well-being.

Confidential and Quick Results

Your privacy is our priority. We ensure that all tests are conducted in a secure and private environment, with results shared exclusively with you. Most tests at Any Lab Test Now take less than 15 minutes, and you can expect to receive your results within 24 to 72 hours. No time wasted waiting to see your doctor then waiting longer for labs to be ordered. Forget sitting for what seems like forever, waiting your turn at an urgent care. Fast, confidential, and reliable — we provide a seamless experience from start to finish.

Comprehensive Test Options

Our range of available tests is extensive, covering various aspects of health and wellness.

• Perhaps you’re looking for a snapshot of your overall health, and that’s where our general health screenings come in handy.

• We also offer extensive DNA analysis to provide you with the answers you need. Again, you own these results. You might be familiar with reports that indicate some companies share DNA results. You don’t have to be concerned that Any Lab Test Now® will share these results with anyone.

• Our confidential STD/STI panels discreetly and accurately inform you of your status.

• Plus, our drug and alcohol panels test for a wide range of substances.

Whether for screenings or diagnostic testing, we offer thousands of competitively priced lab tests. Our comprehensive services cater to a multitude of health needs, making us a versatile choice if you’re seeking detailed health insights.

Access to Telehealth Services

We understand the importance of convenient health consultations. That’s why we offer access to telehealth services, allowing you to discuss test results and health concerns with medical professionals. Test results belong to you. However, we strongly encourage you to have a conversation with your provider about the results. If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with DialCare. This service helps you find a provider licensed in your state to discuss results and any further testing or changes you may need to make to achieve your health goals.

Competitive Pricing and Convenience

The Any Lab Test Now® experience is about providing high-quality services at accessible prices. With transparent pricing and no hidden costs, we make it easier for you to access the health tests you need without financial burden. No insurance is needed or ever accepted. Costs associated with lab testing are one of the medical expenses you can typically pay for with either a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

Expert Staff and Advanced Technology

Our skilled team of professionals is dedicated to offering an informative and supportive testing experience from answering your questions to blood draws. Using the latest technology in lab testing, we guarantee accurate and timely results. With Any Lab Test Now, you can expect a high standard of service and care at every step.

Schedule Today

As you kick off the new year prioritizing your health and wellness, remember that Any Lab Test Now® is your partner in health, providing tests to help keep you and your family healthy all year long. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

Specialty Tests

When you think about getting lab testing done, most people think about blood draws for screening or diagnosis of certain health conditions. However, there are a number of specialty tests we supply at Any Lab Test Now® that not only provide solutions that can improve your health but also tests that provide answers to other life situations. They involve examining deoxyribonucleic acid, better known as DNA.

What is DNA?

The Cleveland Clinic says DNA is the genetic material found in every cell, serving as the body’s instruction manual. This manual is written in a code composed of four chemical bases. These bases combine in specific sequences to form “words” in the manual. DNA consistently duplicates itself using these sequences. Of the estimated 3 billion bases in a human body, approximately 99% are identical across individuals, while the unique 1% differentiates each person. It’s that 1% that is studied to reveal important information, essentially your operating manual as described by the National Institutes of Health’s Human Genome Project.

Infidelity Testing

It’s that same 1% that we look at to better examine your specific make-up. Here’s where the science is utilized. At Any Lab Test Now®, we provide a number of specialty tests involving DNA that can answer questions or concerns you may have about a myriad of issues, including whether or not your partner is cheating on you, an issue that many people face within a relationship. In fact, based on recent data, statistics show that men continue to cheat in monogamous relationships more than women. Information from the General Social Survey reveals that 20% of married men and 13% of married women confess to infidelity. While women’s infidelity rates have surged by 40% over the past two decades, among married adults aged 18 to 29, women slightly surpass men in infidelity. However, for those 30 and older, men remain more prone to cheating.

If you suspect your spouse or significant other has been cheating on you, the DNA DETECTION test can be used to determine infidelity. Although the test results are not admissible in court, the Infidelity DNA Test answers any questions or concerns you may have about a possible cheating spouse or significant other. You will know the truth, allowing you to make an educated next-step decision in your relationship.

Another available test to you is the SEMEN DETECTION analysis performed on an item submitted when it is suspected the item may contain seminal fluid and/or sperm. Perhaps the most well-known instance of suspected infidelity involved former U.S. President Bill Clinton and White House intern Monica Lewinsky. In this case, according to the Washington Post, FBI DNA tests concluded that the genetic markers of a semen stain found on Monica Lewinsky’s navy blue dress matched President Clinton’s DNA. Much like the dress in question, the DNA analysis done at Any Lab Test Now® identifies the presence of semen or sperm from a stain or biological material on specific items, such as linens, undergarments, tissues, sanitary pads, and other types of clothing.

Specialty Tests for Your Health

In another instance, the testing we provide can offer some health solutions. Let’s say you’re trying to manage your weight, but certain diet plans are just not working, and the scale isn’t budging. Using an Any Lab Test Now® specialty test like the HEALTHY WEIGHT DNA TEST, your DNA will reveal your best nutrition and fitness plan so your weight management goals can be achieved. This is a science-backed weight-management program tailored to your unique genetic composition. After taking the test, you’ll receive customized nutrition and fitness advice within weeks. Instead of a generic approach, our lab assesses your DNA, focusing on genetic markers linked to weight, metabolism, and body type. Your personalized report, derived from your DNA results, offers specific guidance to craft a weight-management regimen for optimal outcomes, ensuring a more tailored solution than traditional diet books or meal plans. This strategy, rooted in your genetics, paves the way for tangible results.

Providing Answers About Medications

Pharmacogenomics, orPGx, studies how your genetic makeup, inherited from your parents, impacts your response to various medications, both prescription and over-the-counter. These genes are the body’s foundational units, instructing the creation of proteins that determine physical traits, such as hair and eye color, while others code for RNA with varied functions. Inherited from both parents, one gene from each, they replicate until they sufficiently populate your genetic instruction manual. The human body contains an estimated 20,000 to 25,000 genes.

Depending on your genetics, medications might vary in effectiveness and side effects. Such insights enable personalized medication choices for current and future needs. We’ve got a couple of tests providing this insightful information. The PAIN PGX PANEL allows us to determine how you might respond to certain pain medications based on your genetic makeup. It analyzes different genes associated with specific medications that are commonly prescribed in pain management. This pharmacogenetic testing is most useful before beginning a medication, if it seems ineffective, or if you’re experiencing side effects. This non-invasive and efficient test reduces the likelihood of adverse drug reactions, which, per the CDC, account for over 1 million emergency visits annually. The risk of these reactions rises with multiple medications. By enhancing medication adherence and informing healthcare providers, pharmacogenetic testing ultimately elevates patient outcomes.

The same concepts apply to our ADDICTION PGX PANEL. This panel analyzes genes associated with specific medications that are commonly prescribed to treat disorders related to addiction.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

Keep in mind that we understand that tests we describe involving DNA reveal highly personal information. We provide the utmost care and discretion with these matters; we adhere to strict HIPAA regulations and maintain 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 the sensitive nature of these issues.

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.

Navigating Unregulated Fitness Supplements

Navigating the fitness landscape can be challenging, especially with the allure of quick fixes in the form of dietary and fitness supplements. You might have heard about the potential benefits of using fitness supplements to enhance your workouts and even increase energy. However, you should be aware of the potential dangers linked to unregulated fitness supplements.

Safety Concerns

Many fitness supplements on the market today don’t undergo stringent testing or regulation. The concerning trend is that a significant number of fitness supplements available for purchase have not been evaluated by health authorities, leaving room for harmful ingredients to creep into the mix. So, while you might believe you’re consuming a supplement to boost your protein levels, for example, you might also be ingesting harmful or banned substances unknowingly.

Hidden Dangers

In a study conducted by the National Institutes of Health, although competitive athletes are closely monitored for substances, they, as well as others who are trying to stay in top physical shape, often “turn to supplements hoping to find herbs, vitamins or minerals that provide the desired competitive edge.” The American Medical Association (AMA) contends that these supplements can be confusing for consumers because they lack transparency as these supplements are not approved by the Food and Drug Administration for safety and efficacy.

Ingredients Are Not Clear

Problem is there can be as many as 50,000 to 80,000 supplements in the market that aren’t being examined by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The FDA does look at some dietary supplements, but they are regulated as food, not drugs. The FDA says, “Many dietary supplements contain ingredients that have strong biological effects, which may conflict with a medicine you are taking or a medical condition you may have. Products containing hidden drugs are also sometimes falsely marketed as dietary supplements, putting consumers at even greater risk.” It’s best to seek the advice of a healthcare provider before using any fitness or dietary supplements.

The bottom line is these unregulated supplements could cause adverse health effects and put you in jeopardy if you’re using banned substances or performance -enhancing drugs unknowingly.

Effective Alternatives to Consider

There are other safe and effective alternatives to consider, like enjoying natural nutrition and focusing on getting your nutrients from whole foods. Foods like lean meats, fish, dairy, legumes, fruits, and vegetables provide a plethora of nutrients, including proteins, healthy fats, and essential vitamins and minerals. Unlike many supplements, they’re free from harmful additives and are a foundational aspect of a healthy diet.

We can help guide you on your path to good nutrition and better health at Any Lab Test Now.® We are a lab testing resource at your disposal designed to help with your health and wellness goals.

For example, we offer lab tests like our HEALTHY WEIGHT DNA TEST, which is a scientifically-based weight-management test and program that identifies your unique genetic makeup and provides diet and exercise strategies specifically tailored to your genotype. 

Within a few weeks of taking the test, you receive personalized nutrition and fitness recommendations that work best for your body.  This test will not be a “one-size fits all” type of test; instead, our lab examines your DNA and analyzes various genetic markers that are known to be associated with your weight, metabolism, and body type.

Using this information, you can receive a personalized report with specific recommendations based on the results of your genetic test. This report provides the essential information you need from your DNA to tailor a weight-loss program that can achieve real results. Unlike diet books and pre-packaged meal plans, the fitness program created by the results of DNA testing can offer customized solutions to help you realize a healthy weight since it’s based on your unique genetic information.

Your results will provide personalized recommendations for:

• Foods to eat — the best foods to meet your caloric needs.
• Nutrients — Optimal nutrient needs and most effective supplements.
• Best exercises — Ideal workouts to achieve and maintain your healthiest weight.

You may also want to consider our WEIGHT MANAGEMENT KIT, which that looks at possible undetected hormone imbalances that might be the missing link as to why achieving and maintaining your optimal weight has been unsuccessful, despite your best efforts with diet and exercise.

The Weight Management kit is ideal for women and men who are struggling with weight issues, menopause or andropause, and anyone wanting to get to the root of general health concerns.

The Weight Management Take Home Hormone Kit consists of a dried blood spot test and a saliva test. The test measures bioavailable hormone levels for those with unexplained weight gain, obesity, abdominal fat, high BMI, and low metabolism.

This kit is available in-store or for purchase online.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

We want to help you achieve your optimal health and fitness goals, which is why Any Lab Test Now® provides several tests to help meet your goals. We provide the lab testing; you own the results and can use them as you choose.

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

Titer Testing, Who Needs It?

If you’re a parent, no doubt you remember your little one having to head to the pediatrician to get vaccines for several diseases. In many states, those immunizations are required for school-aged children. If your child is now a young adult, they may be heading to college or heading into the next chapter of life, and they need those immunization records. Problem is, those records are sometimes difficult to track down, especially if you’ve moved.

When Proof of Immunization is Needed

Besides colleges and universities requiring proof of immunization, there are others who need to have confirmation of immunization, like healthcare students, travelers, school faculty, healthcare and veterinary professionals, medical sales and medical device representatives.

Titer Testing with Any Lab Test Now®

If you fall into any of these categories, Any Lab Test Now® can provide answers through a few of our titer tests. These are antibody tests that detect the presence and measure the amount of antibodies in a person’s blood and can provide confirmation of immunization. Antibodies are proteins produced by the immune system in response to the presence of foreign substances, such as viruses or bacteria. A titer may be used to prove immunity to disease.

What Does a Titer Test Reveal?

Here’s the process. Come to an Any Lab Test Now® lab testing center. We will obtain a blood sample from you. The results of the titer test will show whether you have a sufficient level of antibodies against the targeted pathogen. If the titer level is above a certain threshold, it generally indicates that you are immune to the disease or have a protective level of antibodies due to prior exposure or vaccination. If the test is negative (no immunity) or equivocal (not enough immunity) you need to get a booster vaccine.

Titer tests are commonly used for diseases such as measles, mumps, rubella, hepatitis, varicella (chickenpox), and others. They are also used to check immunity for individuals at risk of exposure to certain infectious agents.

Get Tested at Any Lab Test Now®

Here are a few of the important tests we have at Any Lab Test Now®.

Student Titer I Panel – This is a simple venous blood draw that can test for immunity for the following diseases:

• Measles – Also known as rubeola, is a virus that infects cells in the lung and in the back of the throat.
• Mumps – This is a contagious viral infection that is easily spread through sneezing, coughing, talking, or by sharing items (e.g., utensils or cups).
• Rubella – Highly contagious infection characterized by fever and rash.
• Varicella – Chickenpox and shingles are caused by an infection with the varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

Student Titer II Panel – this was previously called the Allied Health Panel. This series covers all the above-mentioned diseases, plus tests for hepatitis B, which is inflammation of the liver caused by a viral infection.

Why Vaccines are Important

The World Health Organization attributes immunization to saving millions of lives every year, creating a significant impact on global health, promoting healthy populations, and enabling economic development by reducing illness-related productivity losses.

Vaccines are designed to protect individuals from serious and potentially life-threatening infectious diseases. They stimulate the immune system to produce antibodies and memory cells, which provide immunity against specific pathogens. Vaccines have been instrumental in eradicating or controlling several diseases that were once widespread and caused significant morbidity and mortality. For example, smallpox has been eradicated worldwide, and diseases like polio and measles have seen significant reductions in cases due to vaccination efforts.

Healthcare and You

If you want or need to know if you have immunity against certain illnesses, Any Lab Test Now® can help. We are a lab testing center that provides tangible results, which gives you the opportunity to make well-informed decisions about your health.

With many young adults leaving the nest, they are budgeting for the first time, or it’s the debut of their own healthcare plans. For insurance with a high deductible, we are the solution to help save you money. Lab testing is one of the medical expenses you can pay for with a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

It’s important for young adults or anyone looking for information 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. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

Young Adult Health

Transitions in life are never easy. Take, for example, the newfound responsibilities that come with entering young adulthood. Often this means for the first time in life, you, as a young person are on your own, navigating new territory — learning to manage how to take care of yourself. This transformation often occurs in the late teens and early 20s and can be an eye-opening experience, especially when it concerns health.

The National Institutes of Health says young adulthood is the ideal time to learn and practice preventive health. While it’s perceived that young people enjoy good health, this is a time in your life when serious long-term illnesses or disorders can be averted through knowledge and wellness practices. Many chronic issues, such as obesity, diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and certain types of cancer, have their roots in early adulthood. It’s during this time that you can establish routines and behaviors related to physical activity, nutrition, sleep, stress management, and preventive care. Prioritizing health now, sets the foundation for a healthier future.

The Importance of Screenings

As a young person, you are still undergoing physical development and growth, making it crucial to support your bodies’ needs. Proper nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep contribute to healthy growth, muscle development, bone density, and hormonal balance. This stage of life lays the groundwork for optimal physical health and reduces the risk of chronic diseases later in life.

Any Lab Test Now® is your partner in health throughout all seasons. We understand that for you to be engaged in wellness practices providing optimal health, now and long term, means getting routine screenings to maximize health, provide baselines, and detect early signs of untreated illness. Plus, at this age, risk-taking is common, which is behavior that impacts lifelong health.

Overall Look at Your Health

Helping to serve these needs, our lab testing centers offer the ANNUAL CHECK-UP PANEL, which is a routine but effective lab test that monitors health, establishes a baseline, and provides knowledge of your wellness. This panel consists of five tests that provide a snapshot of information about your blood counts, kidney function, liver function, electrolytes, cholesterol, triglycerides, hemoglobin A1c, and thyroid function.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

Young adulthood is a period of significant lifestyle changes, such as entering the workforce, pursuing higher education, or starting independent living. Prioritizing mental health is essential during this time, as you face various stressors and challenges. In a recent Kaiser Family Foundation/CNN survey, 34% of American adults under age 30 rate their mental health as fair or poor, with many saying it prohibits their ability to enjoy a quality of life. That’s why this is an ideal time in your life to be cognizant of good health practices both physically and mentally. Regular exercise and a balanced diet play a role in promoting mental well-being, reducing stress, and enhancing resilience to cope with life’s demands. Good nutritional health supports a strong immune system, which is crucial for young adults.

Our BASIC NUTRITIONAL PANEL includes a variety of tests that can help you determine if you are getting enough nutrition. This panel can also help rule out adrenal gland disorders and malnutrition. It can also reveal anemia, signs of infection, or other factors that may cause fatigue; a CMP, which analyzes electrolytes, sugar, proteins, and enzymes, including sodium, potassium, calcium, glucose, and liver/kidney function tests; and an iron and total iron-binding capacity test (TIBC) — which measures the amount of iron in your blood.

Providing Answers When You Need Them

We also understand that this may be the first time you’re on your own, making choices that can affect your health. Behaviors like smoking, illicit drug use, excessive alcohol consumption, and sexual activity can have a substantial impact on current and long-term health outcomes. Problems associated with disease transmission through sexual contact has reached epidemic proportion in the United States, according to the CDC. Cases of the sexually transmitted infections (STDs) chlamydia, gonorrhea, and syphilis all increased between 2020 and 2021 — reaching a total of more than 2.5 million reported cases throughout the U.S.

Any Lab Test Now® is a judgment-free zone. We are here to provide answers when you need them. Our STD PANEL, COMPREHENSIVE, tests for infections that can be spread from one person to another through sexual contact. It is possible to have an STD and not realize it. Symptoms of STDs can vary — some people might experience significant symptoms, and others may have none. Even if people do not feel any symptoms, they can still spread STDs. This is why STD testing is so important. Early detection can lead to proper treatments.

Healthcare Costs

You may be leaving the nest and are budgeting for the first time, or perhaps it’s the debut of your own healthcare plan. For insurance with a high deductible, we are the solution to help save you money. Costs associated with lab testing are one of the medical expenses you can pay for with a Health Savings Account (HSA) or a Flexible Spending Account (FSA).

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Partner in Health

It’s important for you to understand the value of your health and make informed choices that support your well-being. By taking proactive steps to maintain your health during this pivotal stage of life, you can lay the groundwork for a healthier future and maximize your potential in all aspects of life. We are here as a resource to obtain answers with tangible results. Call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.

Answers to Your Health Concerns About Anemia

Anemia is the kind of disorder that exemplifies just how important it is to have routine bloodwork. Any Lab Test Now® is here to partner with you as you take charge of your health. Whether you’re having labs done as a screening or as a diagnostic tool, we provide affordability, confidentiality, and convenience to help you get answers to health concerns.

What is Anemia?

When it comes to anemia — The American Society of Hematology says you may not even know you’re anemic until it’s identified in a blood test. There are some three million people in the United States who have been diagnosed with anemia — a condition in which the body is not getting enough oxygen-rich blood. That lack of oxygen makes the body work harder to operate, which means you wind up feeling fatigued and weak. Those are just a few of the symptoms. The National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute says you may also have shortness of breath, dizziness, headaches, pounding in your ears, cold hands or feet, pale or yellow skin, or an irregular heartbeat.

Some folks are more prone to anemia than others. For instance, if you have a poor diet, gastrointestinal problems, chronic diseases, or infections, you are more susceptible to anemia.

Types of Anemia

There are several types of anemia. The one most of us are familiar with is iron-deficiency anemia. Typically, this is caused by blood loss or poor iron absorption. To treat it, your provider would have to find the source of the blood loss.

Next is vitamin-deficiency (pernicious) anemia resulting from low levels of vitamin B12 or folic acid caused by poor diet. It’s caused by the body’s inability to absorb vitamin B12. To treat this type of anemia, your provider may suggest modifying your diet or adding supplements.

Aplastic anemia is rare but occurs when the body’s bone marrow stops making blood cells because of dysfunction of bone marrow creation. Treatment begins with a visit to see a hematologist who may conduct a bone marrow biopsy to determine the cause of the anemia. Medications and blood transfusions may be used to treat aplastic anemia.

Hemolytic anemia is when red blood cells are broken up in the bloodstream or in the spleen; because there is a mechanical heart problem or a number of other disorders. Treatment is dependent on the cause but may include medication or the guidance of a heart or vascular specialist.

The Mayo Clinic describes sickle cell anemia as an inherited disorder called sickle cell disease that affects the shape of red blood cells, which prevents oxygen from being carried properly through the blood.

Anemia Testing at Any Lab Test Now®

At Any Lab Test Now®, we offer our ANEMIA PANEL, a comprehensive screening test that includes a CBC, Ferritin, Folates, Total Iron Binding Capacity tests, Reticulocyte Count, vitamin B12, and folic acid tests.

A CBC (Complete Blood Count) looks at important parameters of your blood, including hemoglobin level, white blood cells, red blood cells, and platelets. The Ferritin, Iron, and Total Iron Binding Capacity tests work together to indicate if you have an iron deficiency, which is the most common form of anemia. The Reticulocyte Count can help determine if you are producing enough red blood cells and the cause of different types of anemia. Finally, this panel will indicate any vitamin B12 and folic acid deficiency, often the reason for the onset of anemia.

Being screened for anemia, whether you are symptomatic or not, is a good idea. Although some anemia can’t be prevented, there are some changes you can make, like eating more iron-rich and vitamin-rich foods to improve the condition. Your provider may also encourage you to take a multivitamin or iron supplements if appropriate.

Manage Your Health

What we do at Any Lab Test Now® is empower you to take control of your health by providing tests like the Anemia Panel. The test results belong to you. However, we strongly encourage you to have a conversation with your provider about the results. If you do not have a primary care physician, Any Lab Test Now® has partnered with DialCare. This service helps you find a provider licensed in your state to discuss results and any further testing or changes you may need to make to achieve your health goals.

Any Lab Test Now® is Your Resource for Improved Health

Any Lab Test Now® provides thousands of tests available to you as our commitment to being your partner in health. We are here to help you and your family achieve your health and wellness goals. 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.

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.