How to Get Your Health Measurements
A guide to obtaining the health metrics needed for your heart disease risk assessment
Important Note
The information on this page is for educational purposes only. Always consult with healthcare professionals for medical advice and proper testing procedures.
What is a Lipid Panel?
A lipid panel (or lipid profile) is a blood test that measures different types of cholesterol and triglycerides in your blood. It typically includes:
- Total Cholesterol: The total amount of cholesterol in your blood
- HDL Cholesterol: "Good" cholesterol that helps remove other forms of cholesterol from your bloodstream
- LDL Cholesterol: "Bad" cholesterol that can build up in your arteries
- Triglycerides: A type of fat found in your blood
How to Get Tested
You can get a lipid panel through:
- Your primary care physician during a regular check-up
- Health clinics or community health centers
- Pharmacy-based health clinics (available at some major pharmacy chains)
- Health fairs or workplace wellness programs
- At-home test kits (though these may be less accurate than laboratory tests)
Preparing for the Test
For the most accurate results:
- Fast for 9-12 hours before the test (water is okay)
- Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before the test
- Maintain your regular diet for several days before the test
- Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you're taking
Understanding Blood Pressure Readings
Blood pressure is measured using two numbers:
- Systolic (top number): The pressure in your arteries when your heart beats
- Diastolic (bottom number): The pressure in your arteries when your heart rests between beats
Blood pressure is written as systolic/diastolic, such as 120/80 mmHg.
Where to Get Your Blood Pressure Measured
- Doctor's office or healthcare clinic
- Pharmacy blood pressure machines (often free to use)
- Community health fairs
- Home blood pressure monitors (available at pharmacies and online)
Tips for Accurate Readings
- Avoid caffeine, exercise, and smoking for 30 minutes before measurement
- Empty your bladder before the test
- Sit with your back supported and feet flat on the floor
- Rest your arm at heart level on a table or other support
- Don't talk during the measurement
- Take multiple readings and calculate the average
Diabetes Status
Diabetes is typically diagnosed through blood tests that measure your blood glucose levels:
- Fasting blood glucose test
- A1C test (measures average blood sugar over 2-3 months)
- Oral glucose tolerance test
These tests are available through your healthcare provider or at specialized diabetes screening events.
Smoking Status
This is self-reported based on your current and past smoking habits:
- Current smoker: Currently smoke cigarettes, even occasionally
- Former smoker: Previously smoked but have quit
- Never smoker: Never smoked cigarettes
Medication Use
Information about medications (hypertension treatment, statins, aspirin) should be based on your current prescription medications. If you're unsure, check with your healthcare provider or pharmacist.
Cholesterol Screening
- Adults 20+ with normal levels: Every 4-6 years
- Adults with risk factors or abnormal levels: More frequently, as recommended by your healthcare provider
- Adults 40+ or with certain risk factors: Annually or as recommended
Blood Pressure Screening
- Adults with normal blood pressure: At least once every 2 years
- Adults with elevated or high blood pressure: More frequently, as recommended by your healthcare provider
- Home monitoring: If recommended by your doctor, follow their guidance on frequency
Diabetes Screening
- Adults 45+ with normal results: Every 3 years
- Adults with prediabetes: Every 1-2 years
- Adults with risk factors: Start screening earlier and more frequently
Healthcare Providers
- Primary care physicians
- Family medicine practitioners
- Internal medicine specialists
- Cardiologists (for specialized heart health)
Community Resources
- Community health centers
- Public health departments
- Health fairs and screening events
- Workplace wellness programs
Finding Low-Cost Options
- Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) offer sliding scale fees
- Many pharmacies offer low-cost health screenings
- Check with your insurance provider about covered preventive services
- Search for free screening events through local hospitals, health departments, or community organizations