You’re Not “Overthinking It”: When to Get Tested (Even If You Feel Fine)

You know that moment when you pause in the middle of a normal day and think, “Should I get checked… just in case?”
Not because something is obviously wrong. Not because you’re in pain. Just because you’ve been feeling a little “off” in a way you can’t quite explain—or because life has been so busy that you can’t remember the last time you had blood work done.

And then, almost immediately, you talk yourself out of it.

It’s probably stress.
I’m just tired.
I don’t want to be dramatic.
I’ll deal with it later.

Except “later” has a way of turning into months. And the hardest part about many health issues is that they don’t always announce themselves with a clear, movie-scene symptom. Sometimes the body whispers. Sometimes it says nothing at all.

That’s why preventative lab testing matters. Not because you’re expecting bad news—but because you deserve the calm that comes from knowing what’s going on beneath the surface.

At Any Lab Test Now®, we make it easy to take that first step with direct-access lab testing: choose your test, view transparent pricing, walk in or book an appointment, and get reliable results—without needing to schedule a doctor visit first. Most visits take about 15 minutes, and results are delivered electronically in a few business days.

The Truth: “Feeling Fine” Doesn’t Always Mean Everything is Fine

A lot of the conditions people wish they’d caught earlier have one thing in common: they can be vague at first—or totally silent. It’s not uncommon to have changes in blood sugar or thyroid function long before you’d ever describe yourself as “sick.”

That’s also why testing can feel emotional. Because when you’re responsible for a job, a family, a household, and everything in between, your health becomes the thing you keep promising you’ll get to… after everyone else is taken care of.

Preventative testing flips that pattern. It’s a small act of self-respect that says: I’m allowed to check in on myself before things get worse.

When it’s Time to Test—Even if You’re Not Having Symptoms

1) When You Can’t Remember the Last Time You Had Routine Blood Work

If it’s been a year (or more) since you’ve had standard labs done, that’s not a failure—it’s just real life. But it is a sign it might be time for a reset.

Consider: Annual Checkup Panel

2) When You’re Tired of Guessing Whether it’s Stress, Burnout, or Something Physical

A lot of people live in a low-grade fog—dragging through the day, relying on caffeine, blaming their schedule, wondering why their motivation disappeared. And yes, stress is real. But stress can also mask underlying issues.

Consider: Thyroid testing 

3) When Diabetes Runs in Your Family—or You Just Want Peace of Mind

Diabetes and pre-diabetes are exactly the kind of conditions that can progress quietly. You may feel totally normal… until you don’t. If you’ve got family history, recent weight changes, or you simply want to know where you stand, checking your numbers can bring real relief.

Consider: Hemoglobin A1c (Diabetes Monitoring)

What Preventative Testing Really Gives You: Relief, Not Just Results

People think lab work is about finding problems. But more often, it’s about ending the mental spiral.

Because the truth is, uncertainty has symptoms of its own:

  • you keep second-guessing your body
  • you worry in quiet moments
  • you put off plans because you “should probably get checked first”
  • you tell yourself you’re fine… but you don’t fully believe it

Testing won’t solve everything—but it can give you a solid next step. And sometimes that’s exactly what you’ve been needing.

Why Any Lab Test Now® Makes it Easier to Follow Through

If you’ve delayed testing because it feels like a whole production—appointments, referrals, surprise bills—this is your reminder that it doesn’t have to be that complicated.

Any Lab Test Now® makes getting tested straightforward: direct access, transparent pricing, walk-ins welcome, and an average visit around 15 minutes. We also provide the doctor’s orders for thousands of lab tests, including our Annual Checkup Panel.

Ready to stop guessing and start feeling confident in your health choices? Find a location near you, view pricing, and get started today.

DNA Testing 101: Paternity, Avuncular, and Grandparentage—What’s Right for You?

If you’re trying to sort through paternity vs. avuncular vs. grandparentage DNA testing, you’re not alone- and you’re not “overreacting.” Relationship DNA testing isn’t about curiosity for curiosity’s sake. Most of the time, it’s about peace of mind, protecting a child, making the next step possible, or finally getting to breathe again.

At Any Lab Test Now®, we see how much courage it takes to seek answers. And we make it easier to take that step with affordable, professional, confidential testing- without the hassle of a doctor’s visit.

When the Question is “Is He the Father?”

Sometimes the question comes out during an argument. Sometimes it’s whispered late at night, after months-or years-of trying to ignore it. Sometimes it’s not even about doubt… it’s about proof.

Maybe you’re a mom who is exhausted from carrying the emotional weight alone and just wants clarity so you can plan your life. Maybe you’re a dad who loves a child deeply but feels stuck in limbo, needing certainty before signing papers, stepping into court, or committing fully without that lingering fear. Or maybe you’re building a new chapter- child support, custody, visitation, a birth certificate update- and you need a test that isn’t just accurate, but recognized.

Why paternity testing can be the right fit:

  • When the alleged father is available to test
  • When you need clear answers quickly and reliably
  • When your next step involves legal documentation (court, child support, custody, benefits, etc.)

Any Lab Test Now offers legally-admissible paternity testing that follows chain-of-custody requirements (the protocols courts typically require), and marketing materials note results are highly accurate and commonly returned within a few business days. We also offer informational (non-legal) paternity tests when what you need most right now is clarity for yourself and your family—not necessarily paperwork.

And just as important as the science is the experience: you deserve a setting that feels professional and calm, not intimidating. Our goal is to help you move from spiraling “what-ifs” to a real, concrete answer—so you can stop replaying the same question in your head.

When the Father Can’t (or Won’t) Test: “Is There Another Way?”

Not every family situation is straightforward. Sometimes the person who would typically test isn’t available—because of distance, refusal, incarceration, deployment, estrangement, or something more painful.

And when the “standard” option isn’t possible, it can feel like the door to the truth is slammed shut. That’s often when people start asking questions like:

  • “If the dad can’t test, can we test his brother?”
  • “Can the grandparents help confirm the relationship?”
  • “Do we have any options left?”

You do.

Avuncular DNA Testing (Aunt/Uncle Testing)

An avuncular test helps determine whether an alleged aunt or uncle is biologically related to a child—often used when the alleged father isn’t available.

This path is common when families are trying to do the right thing for a child, but they’re navigating complicated adult dynamics. It can also show up when the emotional temperature is high—when everyone wants to protect someone, but nobody wants to be the first to say the quiet part out loud.

Avuncular testing can offer something that families desperately need in those moments: a way forward. Not a guessing game. Not another argument. A next step.

Grandparentage DNA Testing

A grandparentage test uses the child’s DNA and the DNA of one or both alleged grandparents to evaluate biological relationship—again, commonly used when the alleged father isn’t able to test.

For many families, this isn’t just about “who’s right.” It’s about identity, belonging, medical history, and a child’s future. Sometimes a grandparent wants to help but is afraid of what the truth might mean for the family. Sometimes they want to help because they believe the child belongs, and they want proof to push through denial or resistance.

Either way, testing can replace tension and speculation with something steadier: truth you can act on.

One of the most common reasons people delay DNA testing is that they’re already overwhelmed—and the process sounds confusing. A simple way to think about it:

  • If your results need to stand up in a legal setting, you likely want legal, chain-of-custody testing. Any Lab Test Now specifically offers legally-admissible paternity testing with chain-of-custody protocols.
  • If you want answers for personal clarity first, informational testing can be a more flexible starting point.

If you’re not sure which you need, that’s normal—this is emotional, and it’s not always obvious at first what the “next step” will be. The key is choosing a test that supports the future you’re trying to build, not just the question you’re trying to answer.

Take the Next Step with Any Lab Test Now®

Any Lab Test Now® offers convenient paternity testing options for both informational and legal purposes, with legally-admissible testing available when required. We’re built for real life: busy schedules, sensitive situations, and people who need answers without jumping through hoops.

Ready to choose the right relationship DNA test for your situation? Find a location near you and get started.

Stronger Communities Start with Answers: 5 Ways Direct-Access Lab Testing Supports Public Health

Public health isn’t just something that happens at a national level—it’s built day-by-day in local communities. When people can get timely, affordable lab testing, they’re more likely to catch issues early, reduce spread of illness, and make informed decisions about their health.

That’s where direct-access lab testing makes a real difference. At Any Lab Test Now®, you can choose from thousands of lab tests, and we include the doctor’s order—so you can get answers without the extra step of scheduling a physician visit first.

Here are five reasons direct-access lab testing matters locally:

1) Faster Access to Testing = Faster Action

When people have to wait days (or weeks) to get in for an appointment just to request labs, testing often gets postponed. Direct-access testing removes that barrier so you can act sooner—whether you’re checking your blood sugar, monitoring hormones, or staying on top of prevention.

Any Lab Test Now® is designed for busy schedules, with an average visit that takes about 15 minutes at many locations.

Local impact: quicker testing can mean earlier detection, earlier lifestyle changes, and earlier treatment conversations.

2) Supports Prevention—Not Just “Sick Care”

A healthier community starts with prevention: wellness labs, routine monitoring, and early detection. Direct-access lab testing makes it easier for people to keep up with check-ins, even when they feel “fine.”

Many customers use direct-access testing to stay proactive—especially those who are health-conscious, tracking trends, or working toward goals.

Local impact: prevention helps reduce strain on local healthcare resources and encourages long-term wellness habits.

3) Helps Close Gaps for People with High Deductibles or No Insurance

One of the most overlooked public health challenges is affordability. If testing feels financially out of reach, people delay it—sometimes until symptoms become serious.

Any Lab Test Now® was built to make lab testing more accessible, convenient, and affordable, especially for those with high deductibles or no insurance.

Local impact: more people in your community can access essential information about their health—without the usual barriers.

4) Confidential Testing Empowers People to Follow Through

Public health improves when people feel comfortable getting tested. Direct-access settings can be a more approachable option for sensitive needs—helping customers take the step they’ve been putting off.

Any Lab Test Now® emphasizes confidentiality as a key part of the experience.

Local impact: when people test sooner (and more consistently), communities benefit from earlier awareness and reduced risk of undetected issues.

5) Local Access Creates Local Resilience

Having a convenient, neighborhood option for lab testing strengthens community health infrastructure. It means fewer obstacles, fewer delays, and more control—right where people live and work.

Any Lab Test Now® locations are community-based and built to help people get in, get tested, and get results—often within 1–3 business days depending on the test.

Local impact: a community with easier access to testing is better equipped to handle seasonal illness waves, chronic health challenges, and preventative screening needs.

The Bottom Line

Direct-access lab testing isn’t just a convenience—it’s a practical way to support public health at the local level. It helps people move from “I should probably check that” to “I know where I stand.”

Ready to take the next step? Find a location near you, view available tests and pricing, and schedule your visit (walk-ins are welcome at many locations) on our website.
Take Control Of Your Health! 

Spring Travel & Event Season: Quick Walk-In Testing for Peace of Mind (STIs, Pregnancy, and More)

Spring has a way of filling your calendar fast—weddings, festivals, graduations, work trips, weekend getaways, and family visits. It’s exciting… but it also means you’re juggling a lot, and your health can easily get bumped to “later.”

If you’ve been putting off testing—or you’re simply looking for peace of mind before (or after) a big trip or event—Any Lab Test Now® makes it easy to get tested without the hassle of a doctor’s appointment. Many visits take about 15 minutes, and you can walk in when it fits your schedule.

Why Spring is the Perfect Time to Get Tested

Even when you feel fine, testing can help you stay in control—especially during seasons where life gets busy and routines change. Spring is a common time for:

  • New relationships or dating (hello, warmer weather)
  • Travel that disrupts schedules and self-care routines
  • Big events where you want to feel your best
  • “Wait… I should probably check” moments you don’t want lingering in your head

At Any Lab Test Now®, we keep things convenient, professional, and private—so you can get answers and move forward confidently.

Quick, Confidential STI Testing (Walk-in Friendly)

If you’re sexually active, starting a new relationship, had a recent exposure concern, or just want clarity, STI testing is one of the most empowering “spring reset” steps you can take.

Common STI Testing Options Include:

Need Results Fast?

Some locations offer a Rapid HIV & Syphilis Test with screening results in about 15 minutes. (Availability can vary by location—call ahead if you’re on a tight timeline.)

Pregnancy Testing For Clarity (and Peace of Mind)

Spring travel and events are a lot easier to enjoy when you’re not stuck in “waiting and wondering.”

If you’ve taken an at-home test and want confirmation—or you simply want a reliable answer—Any Lab Test Now® offers a pregnancy test with gestational age (“how far along”). Most visits take around 15 minutes, and results are typically available in 1–3 days.

Wellness Testing to Help You Feel Your Best

Spring is also a popular time to reset routines and check in on overall wellness. Many Any Lab Test Now® locations offer wellness-focused options like:

What to Expect at Any Lab Test Now®

We’re built for busy schedules:

  1. Choose your test(s) (transparent pricing is available online)
  2. Walk in or schedule an appointment
  3. Quick, professional collection—many visits are ~15 minutes
  4. Get results (often within a few business days, depending on the test)

Ready for Peace of Mind This Spring?

Before you pack your bags—or after a big weekend—give yourself the confidence that comes with real answers.

Visit Any Lab Test Now® to find a location near you, explore test options, and view pricing. Take Control Of Your Health!

Kidney Health Month: Understanding eGFR, Creatinine, and Urinalysis

Kidneys are small (about fist-sized) but mighty. They filter waste and extra fluid from your blood, help balance electrolytes, and play a key role in overall health. When kidneys aren’t working well, waste can build up and fluid levels can shift—sometimes long before you feel obvious symptoms.

Kidney Health Month is the perfect time to get familiar with a few common lab markers you’ll often see on kidney-related results: creatinine, eGFR, and urinalysis. The good news? You can take a proactive approach with direct-access testing at Any Lab Test Now®—doctor’s order is included.

1) Creatinine: The “Starting Point” for Kidney Filtration

Creatinine is a waste product your body makes from normal muscle activity. Healthy kidneys remove creatinine from the blood, so when kidney function slows down, creatinine can rise.

  • Why it matters:
    • Creatinine is one of the most common ways to check how well your kidneys are filtering. It’s also a key value used to calculate eGFR (more on that next).
  • Available at Any Lab Test Now® (kidney-focused options):
    • Renal Function Panel – a comprehensive way to monitor kidney health (includes kidney-related markers and is designed to evaluate renal function)

2) eGFR: An Estimate of Kidney Filtration

eGFR stands for estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate. In plain terms: it’s an estimate of how well your kidneys are filtering blood. eGFR is typically calculated using your creatinine result along with factors such as age (and other demographic inputs depending on the method).

  • Why it matters:
    • eGFR can help flag reduced kidney function early—especially when you feel “fine” but your kidneys may be under strain.
  • A quick reminder:
    • eGFR is an estimate—so results should be viewed in context and followed up with a healthcare provider when values are out of range or trending down.

3) Urinalysis: A Simple Urine Test With a Lot to Say

A urinalysis checks your urine for a variety of clues—such as hydration status and indicators that may suggest kidney stress or urinary tract issues.

  • Why it matters for kidney health:
    • Urine can reveal early “signals,” including findings that may be associated with kidney concerns—sometimes before changes show up in bloodwork.
  • Available at Any Lab Test Now®:
    • Urinalysis– checks for albumin/protein as a kidney health indicator

The Easiest Way to Start: Renal Function Panel

If you want a strong starting point for Kidney Health Month, Any Lab Test Now® offers a Renal Function Panel designed to evaluate kidney function and monitor key body systems connected to the kidneys (like minerals, electrolytes, proteins, glucose, and waste products).

This kind of panel is ideal if you are:

  • Managing ongoing wellness goals
  • Monitoring results over time
  • Looking to be proactive (especially if kidney disease runs in your family)

Consider testing if you:

  • Want a baseline as part of a wellness routine
  • Have a personal or family history of kidney issues
  • Are managing diabetes or other metabolic health concerns
  • Simply want more clarity on your numbers (without the hassle of a doctor visit first)

Take Control Of Your Health!

Kidney Health Month is a great reminder that small, proactive steps can make a big difference. With Any Lab Test Now®, you can walk in, get tested, and get clear results—with a doctor’s order included.

Visit our website to explore kidney-related testing options and pricing. Take Control Of Your Health!

Winter Blues or Something Else? Vitamin and Hormone Testing for Mood Support

When the days get shorter and routines shift, it’s common to feel more tired, unmotivated, or “off.” Sometimes that’s the winter blues—but sometimes mood changes are connected to underlying imbalances like low vitamin levels or hormone shifts. The good news: you don’t have to guess. With direct-access testing at Any Lab Test Now®, you can check key markers that may impact energy, focus, and mood.

Below are testing options available at Any Lab Test Now that people commonly consider for mood support.

When Mood Changes Might Be More Than “Just Winter”

If you’re noticing symptoms that stick around or affect daily life—like low energy, brain fog, poor sleep, irritability, or changes in appetite—it may be worth looking at what’s happening internally.

Lab testing can’t diagnose mental health conditions on its own, but it can uncover vitamin or hormone-related issues that may contribute to how you feel.

Vitamin Testing Options for Mood & Energy Support

Basic Nutritional Panel

If you’re not sure where to start, the Basic Nutritional Panel is a strong foundation. It includes a broad mix of nutrients and health markers often tied to fatigue and overall wellness, including:

  • Vitamin B12
  • Folate
  • Vitamin D
  • Ferritin (iron storage)
  • Iron + Total Iron Binding Capacity (TIBC)
  • CBC (Complete Blood Count)
  • CMP (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel)
  • Plus additional nutrients like Vitamin C, Zinc, CoQ10, and Homocysteine

This panel can be especially helpful if you’re feeling run-down and want a wider view of what may be going on.

Vitamin D Test

Vitamin D is commonly discussed during winter months because many people get less sun exposure. Any Lab Test Now® offers a Vitamin D Test as a standalone option.

Hormone Testing Options That Can Impact Mood

Thyroid Testing: Basic Thyroid Panel

Your thyroid helps regulate metabolism and energy—so when it’s out of balance, it can affect how you feel day to day. Any Lab Test Now® offers a Basic Thyroid Panel that includes:

  • TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone)
  • Total T4
  • T3 Uptake

Reproductive & Sex Hormones (Individual Tests)

Hormone shifts can influence mood, sleep, and energy in both women and men. Any Lab Test Now® offers individual hormone tests including:

If you’re looking for broader context beyond a single hormone, the Comprehensive Male Wellness Panel includes Testosterone (Free and Total) and TSH, along with additional wellness markers like CBC, metabolic panel, lipids, and more.

What to Expect at Any Lab Test Now®

  • No insurance required (and many people choose testing for convenience)
  • Doctor’s order provided on tests offered
  • A quick, efficient visit (often around 15 minutes) for many services

(Availability can vary by location—your local Any Lab Test Now® can help you choose the best option based on your goals.)

How to Start: Pick a Path That Fits Your Symptoms

If you want a simple way to choose:

Take the Next Step

Ready to stop guessing and start getting answers? Find a location near you, explore transparent pricing, and choose the tests that fit your needs.

Take Control Of Your Health!

Preparing for DNA Testing: What to Expect and How to Start

DNA testing can bring clarity, peace of mind, and answers you can act on—whether you’re planning for a new baby, confirming a family relationship, or learning more about your heritage. If you’re considering DNA testing, here’s a simple guide to what to expect and how to get started using DNA testing options available at Any Lab Test Now®.

Step 1: Choose the Right DNA Test for Your Goal

Before you schedule, take a moment to identify why you’re testing. At Any Lab Test Now®, these are the DNA testing options available:

This option compares DNA between an alleged father and a child (and mother participation is preferred when possible). It’s designed for personal knowledge and peace of mind, but it cannot be used for legal matters like court, child support, or changing a birth certificate.

If you need results for a legal purpose, you’ll want a Legal Paternity Test. This option is intended for situations where documentation and verified collection matter (for example, court-related needs).

3) Non-Invasive Prenatal Paternity Testing

Need answers during pregnancy? Any Lab Test Now offers a Non-Invasive Prenatal Legal or Informational Paternity Test (NIPP) with zero risk to the fetus, available as early as 7 weeks into pregnancy. This test uses fetal DNA circulating in the mother’s blood.

4) Gender Reveal (Early Baby Gender DNA Test)

Want to find out the baby’s gender early? The Gender Reveal test uses a simple blood draw and can be offered as early as 6–7 weeks (with 8 weeks recommended for best results). It’s for single pregnancies only and is over 99% accurate.

5) GPS Origins Ancestry Test

If your goal is learning about your roots, the GPS Origins Ancestry Test provides genetic origin percentages and human migration information in a digital format.

Step 2: Know What Your Appointment Will Look Like

While the sample type can vary by test, here’s what you can generally expect during a DNA testing visit:

  • A private, professional experience
  • Identity verification and paperwork (especially important for legal testing)
  • Sample collection based on the test type (for example, blood draw for prenatal paternity and gender reveal)
  • Clear next steps for receiving results and understanding timelines (your local location can confirm specifics)

Step 3: Prep the Details Ahead of Time (So It’s Faster & Easier)

To help your visit go smoothly, consider the following before you go:

  • Confirm which test you need (legal vs. informational matters most for paternity)
  • Bring a valid photo ID, especially for legal testing
  • Know who will be participating (ex: alleged father, child, mother—if applicable)
  • Call your local Any Lab Test Now location with any questions—each location can walk you through what to bring and what to expect

Step 4: Schedule Your DNA Test

Many locations offer convenient appointment scheduling (and some may accept walk-ins depending on the service and staffing). The best move is to contact your nearest location so they can confirm availability and the correct test for your situation.

Find a location near you and get started, today. Take Control Of Your Health!

American Heart Month: The Lab Tests That Matter for Heart Health

February is American Heart Month—a timely reminder that small, proactive steps can make a big difference for long-term heart health. One of the smartest places to start is with lab work. The right tests can help you understand key risk factors like cholesterol balance, inflammation, blood sugar, and more—often before symptoms show up.

At Any Lab Test Now®, you can walk in (or schedule an appointment) and get many of the most important heart-health labs without needing to visit your doctor first. Here are the heart-related tests that matter most and are offered at Any Lab Test Now.

1) Heart Health Panel (Cardiovascular Risk Snapshot)

If you’re not sure where to start, our Heart Health Panel is designed specifically to assess cardiovascular risk in a more complete way than a basic cholesterol test alone. It includes four key components:

  • Lipoprotein Fractionation
  • Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP)
  • High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (hs-CRP)
  • Homocysteine 

Why it matters: This combination looks at both traditional and “behind-the-scenes” heart risk factors (like inflammation and certain markers linked to vascular health). It’s a practical option for establishing a baseline or flagging potential risk early.

2) Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel (Classic Heart Risk Marker)

Your cholesterol numbers still matter—especially when it comes to long-term risk management. A Cholesterol (Lipid) Panel checks for abnormal levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, which can help determine whether you may be at risk for heart disease or coronary illness.

Why it matters: It provides essential numbers like total cholesterol and triglycerides—data many providers use to guide lifestyle changes and next steps.

3) High-Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein (Inflammation & Heart Risk)

hs-CRP is included in our Heart Health Panel and is widely used as an indicator of inflammation, which is an important part of the heart-health conversation.

Why it matters: Even when cholesterol looks “fine,” inflammation can be another piece of the risk puzzle—especially for people focused on prevention.

4) Complete Metabolic Panel (CMP) (Organ Function That Supports Heart Health)

The CMP is also part of our Heart Health Panel and looks broadly at things that support overall wellness—like electrolytes and key markers tied to liver and kidney function.

Why it matters: Your heart doesn’t work in isolation. Many systems (kidneys, liver, electrolyte balance) play a role in cardiovascular wellness and how your body responds to stress, diet, and medications.

5) Homocysteine (Additional Cardiovascular Risk Insight)

Homocysteine is another blood marker included in our Heart Health Panel.

Why it matters: It’s often used as part of a more advanced look at cardiovascular risk—especially for people who want more than just “basic” cholesterol numbers.

6) Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) (Blood Sugar & Heart Health Go Together)

Heart health isn’t just cholesterol—it’s also metabolic health. The Hemoglobin A1c test measures average blood glucose over the past 2–3 months and can help detect prediabetes, diagnose diabetes, or see if diabetes is under control.

Why it matters: Blood sugar management is a major part of lowering long-term cardiovascular risk.

Your Heart-Health Checklist (Simple Ways to Start)

If you want a practical approach this month, consider this progression:

  1. Start with the Heart Health Panel for a well-rounded baseline.
  2. Add HbA1c if you’re monitoring weight, diet changes, or family history of diabetes.
  3. Re-test periodically to track progress and trends over time.

Take Control of Your Heart Health—On Your Schedule

Busy schedule? No problem. At Any Lab Test Now®, most visits take about 15 minutes, and you can choose from a wide range of tests with transparent pricing—all while getting the doctor’s order included.

Happy Heart Health Month!

Colorectal Cancer Awareness

Cancer is a daunting diagnosis that touches many lives, often leading to complex treatment plans, support systems, and an emotional journey of coming to terms with possible outcomes. By definition, cancer involves the uncontrolled growth and spread of abnormal cells in the body. The multitude of cancer types, affecting any part of the body, contributes to its fearsome reputation. Conversations around this subject are tough, particularly with more specific forms like colorectal cancer.

Colorectal cancer is characterized by the uncontrolled growth of cells in the colon or rectum. Often progressing silently from one stage to the next, it demands increasingly intense and high-risk treatments. Early detection through screening is our strongest asset in combating this disease, and at Any Lab Test Now®, we offer a variety of screening options to assist in early identification.

Understanding Testing Options

Testing Options at Any Lab Test Now: 

  1. Colon Cancer Screening (FIT) Test: This non-invasive test detects hemoglobin in the stool, which can be an indicator of colorectal cancer.
  2. Colon Cancer Screening (Blood) Test: This test uses 5 DNA markers to look for the possible presence of colorectal cancer. It involves a simple blood draw and can be performed for all adults, without any age restrictions.

Please note: the Colon Cancer Screen (Blood) Test is not intended to replace a colonoscopy. It is meant to be used as a screening tool for the early detection of colorectal cancer. Based on the results of your test, a colonoscopy may still be recommended. We recommend that you work with a trusted healthcare provider to discuss the colorectal cancer screening options that are best for you.

Each of these tests plays a crucial role in early detection and prevention of colorectal cancer, enhancing the ability to address the disease at a treatable stage. Regular screenings are recommended starting at age 45, or earlier for those with heightened risk factors.

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 affects individuals aged 45 and older, but in recent trends, it increasingly impacts younger populations too. Approximately 150,000 Americans are diagnosed annually, leading to around 50,000 deaths. Its development often occurs with few noticeable symptoms, earning it the moniker, “the silent killer.”

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.

 

Mid-Year Health Check-In: Stick to Your Goals 

We’re at the halfway point of 2024 – can you believe it? It feels like each year gets faster, as life gets busier. As we prepare to take on the second half of the year, now is a good time to reflect on the first half. Did you meet your goals? What are you most proud of? What can you do better? Many people’s New Year’s resolutions have fizzled by now, and if that’s you, you aren’t alone! According to one survey, of the 38% of Americans who make resolutions, only 9% are successful in keeping them. 

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

Statistically, taking strides in your health is one of the most popular resolutions. A recent survey found that more than half of Americans wanted to be healthier – 59% wanted to exercise more, 54% said they would eat healthier, and 48% resolved to lose weight. Each month, our blog highlights different health topics that may impact your life and provides relevant tests to consider.

Cholesterol (Lipids) Panel 

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

According to the CDC, nearly 94 million United States adults, 20 or older, have high cholesterol.

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

There are no symptoms. A blood test is the only way to know if you have high cholesterol which is why it’s important to regularly monitor your levels.

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

Take Back Your Health

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

  • Unhealthy diet
  • Lack of physical activity
  • Smoking or exposure to tobacco smoke 
  • Family history of high cholesterol 

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

Renal Function Panel

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

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

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

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

Hepatic Function Panel

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

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

Some general symptoms, according to Healthline, include:

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

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

Comprehensive Metabolic Panel

The perfect test to have performed as a mid-year checkup is the Comprehensive Metabolic Panel®. This includes 15 essential tests that are typically part of a routine checkup or annual physical. It gives your doctor an overall picture of your health. 

Annual Check-Up Panel

If you want to take it a step further, we recommend the Annual Check-Up Panel. It includes the Lipid Panel and Comprehensive Metabolic Panel(CMP) mentioned above, as well as a Complete Blood Count (CBC), Hemoglobin A1c (HbA1c), and Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH).

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. You can walk in for same-day testing during convenient work-friendly hours or call now to schedule an appointment at a location near you.