New Year, New You: Top Tests for a Healthier You in 2024

Make 2024 your year of health with regular health screenings.

3 min read

There is no better time than the beginning of a new year to make your health a top priority. The importance of specific laboratory tests and screenings cannot be overstated when it comes to the maintenance of one’s health. Here’s your guide to the most important ones.

For Everyone

  1. Cholesterol (lipid panel) :Checking your cholesterol levels helps assess heart health. High cholesterol can increase the risk of heart disease.
  2. Blood sugar :A blood sugar test measures the level of glucose in your blood and is useful for diagnosing diabetes, monitoring glucose levels in diabetic patients, and identifying potential risk factors for other health conditions related to abnormal blood sugar levels.
  3. Bone density (DEXA) : A bone density (DEXA) test uses low-energy X-rays to measure bone mineral density, typically at the hip and spine, assessing bone strength and risk of fractures, which is especially helpful in diagnosing osteoporosis or evaluating fracture risk.

For Men

  1. Testosterone free and total : This test measures both the total amount of testosterone in your blood, including the amount that’s attached to proteins (total testosterone) and the amount that’s not attached and considered “free” (free testosterone). It aids in identifying conditions brought on by hormonal changes, such as low testosterone levels that cause symptoms like decreased sex drive, infertility, or difficulty getting an erection.
  2. Testosterone level :A testosterone level test measures the amount of testosterone in the blood, assessing hormone levels essential for various bodily functions like muscle strength, bone density, sex drive, and sperm production, aiding in diagnosing conditions like low testosterone (hypogonadism) or its excess (hypergonadism).
  3. Prostate cancer screening : Men over 50 should consider a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and a digital rectal exam to detect any signs of prostate cancer.

For Women

  1. Mammogram : Women aged 40 and older should consider regular screening mammograms to detect breast cancer early.
  2. Breast ultrasound : A breast ultrasound is a painless imaging test that uses sound waves to create detailed pictures of the breast tissue. It’s particularly useful for distinguishing between fluid-filled cysts and solid masses, aiding in further evaluation of breast abnormalities detected in mammograms or physical exams.
  3. Thyroid level (TSH) test : A thyroid-stimulating Hormone (TSH) test measures the level of TSH in the blood, assessing the thyroid gland’s function. Specifically for women, it helps diagnose thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, which can affect metabolism, energy levels, and reproductive health.

Prioritize Your Health in 2024

Making these tests a top priority will have a major influence on your health in the long run. Keep in mind that everyone’s health requirements are unique, so it’s important to talk to a doctor about your options before settling on a screening plan. Take charge of your health and wellness in the new year!

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle doesn’t have to be a burden. LabFinder makes it easy to schedule a test and review your results. Don’t have a doctor’s order? LabFinder’s telehealth service, MinuteMed, can connect you with a board-certified physician to make your health journey a breeze.