PRINT THIS AND TAKE IT WITH YOU TO YOUR NEXT ANNUAL PHYSICAL EXAM: 

ESSENTIAL BLOOD WORK SCREENING TESTS CHEAT SHEET 

February is AMERICAN HEART MONTH, so we’re replaying this solo episode where Barbara dives into the essential blood tests and health screenings every midlife woman should ask about during their annual physical. Drawing on expert insights from past episodes, she explains why it’s crucial to go beyond routine tests and discusses additional screenings that can help detect potential health risks early. From heart health to bone strength, Barbara encourages listeners to have proactive conversations with their doctors to ensure they’re getting the best care as they age.  

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:   

- The importance of the lipid panel for understanding heart health. 

- How the Apolipoprotein B (ApoB) test provides a more accurate cardiovascular risk assessment. 

- Why high levels of C-reactive Protein (CrP) can indicate dangerous inflammation levels. 

- The critical role of Vitamin D for bone and immune health, especially in midlife women. 

- How regular blood glucose testing can help catch diabetes early. 

- The significance of blood pressure monitoring for heart disease prevention. 

- Why women should prioritize bone density tests to prevent osteoporosis. 

- The importance of monitoring  waist circumference as an indicator of health risks. 

- The need for regular cancer screenings, including Pap smears, mammograms, and colonoscopies, for early detection. 

Key Takeaways:   

- The lipid panel is foundational to understanding heart health. 

- The ApoB test is crucial for assessing cardiovascular risk. 

- High levels of C-Reactive Protein indicate chronic inflammation risks. 

- Vitamin D is essential for bone and immune health. 

- Regular blood glucose tests can catch diabetes early. 

- Blood pressure monitoring is vital for heart disease prevention. 

- Bone density tests are critical for midlife women. 

- Waist circumference is a key indicator of health risks. 

- Regular cancer screenings are essential for early detection. 

Related Episodes of AGE BETTER: 

Learn more about the ApoB and LP(a) tests HERE.  

Learn more about inflammation HERE.  

Learn more about heart health and atrial fibrillation HERE. 

Learn more about blood glucose and insulin resistance HERE. 

Connect with Barbara:   

Website: BarbaraHannahGrufferman.com   

Instagram: @BarbaraHannahGrufferman   

X/Twitter: @BGrufferman 

Facebook: @BarbaraHannahGruffermanAuthor 

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