The Benefits of Annual Blood Screenings

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Medically reviewed by

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

Dr. Constance Odom, MD

About

Constance Tambakis Odom, MD graduated in 1987 with her Doctorate of Medicine from the New York Medical College, and was an Anesthesiologist Resident from 1988 to 1991 at the Brookdale Medical Center PGY II (CA-I)-PGY IV (CA-III). She is Board Certified by the American Board of Anesthesiology since 1998 and American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine since 2002. Constance Odom, MD is affiliated with the American Medical Association, American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine, American Society of Anesthesiology, Georgia Society of Anesthesiology, Hellenic Medical Society of New York, North Carolina Society of Anesthesiology, and Society of Ambulatory Anesthesia.

Credentials

Medical Director At:

• Nu Image Medical
• MetroMedispa P.A.

Staff Anesthesiologist at:

• Betsy Johnson Regional Hospital in Dunn, NC
• Onslow Memorial Hospital in Jacksonville, NC
• Duplin General Hospital in Kenansville, NC

Director of Anesthesia Services at:

• Jacksonville Surgery Center in Jacksonville, NC

Written by our editorial team.

Last Edited 5 years ago · 7 min read

When was the last time you got a full blood screening? For most people, it wasn't recently.

Annual blood screenings can help you prevent disease and get an early diagnosis. The sooner you know about a health condition, the sooner you can treat it.

Your general physician may have ordered a specific blood test here and there. But, without a full screening, you're missing out on critical information.

Regular blood screenings could be the difference between life and death. Keep reading to learn about some of the biggest benefits of getting an annual test.

Fibrinogen Levels

Fibrinogen is a soluble protein found in blood plasma. When there's tissue inflammation in your body, fibrinogen levels increase in response.

There are many dangerous health conditions associated with inflammation. It can lead to venous thrombosis and heart disease, as well as stroke and rheumatoid arthritis, for examples.

You can decrease your fibrinogen levels naturally by changing your habits. Quit smoking, exercise more, and increase your nutrient intake to lower it.

By getting an annual blood test, you can keep an eye on fibrinogen levels. A significant rise in fibrinogen levels tells your doctor you need further testing.  

DHEA Levels

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is commonly known as "the anti-aging" hormone. Produced by your adrenal glands, DHEA decreases dramatically as you age.

Low levels of DHEA can lead to erectile dysfunction for men. It can also affect your mood, bone density, and the immune system.

Elevated levels of DHEA are also hazardous. It can signify congenital adrenal hyperplasia. This condition can be life-threatening and lead to pulmonary infection.

It's crucial you get regular blood tests to assess your hormone count. Each hormone is important in its unique purpose for the body. Low or high levels of any hormone can be detrimental to your health.

Estradiol Levels

Estradiol, the primary form of estrogen, is crucial for both men and women. In women, the levels of estradiol vary throughout their menstrual cycle. Men produce less estradiol than women but it's just as necessary.

Low levels of estradiol in both sexes can lead to decreased bone density. This can cause osteoporosis and fractures.

Women may suffer from hot flashes, insomnia, and mood swings when estradiol is low. Men may experience skeletal frailty.

As you age, it's important to have enough estradiol in your blood to support bone health. If yours are low, speak with your doctor about available supplements. 

Are You Getting Regular Blood Screenings?

If you don't get regular blood screenings, it's time to consider it. Not only do they notify you of low blood panel levels, but they can lead to early diagnosis.

Many diseases, like heart disease, are easier to treat the sooner you catch them.

Knowing your fibrinogen, DHEA, and estradiol levels are only some of the benefits. Annual blood screenings enable your physician to get a deeper look into your health.

If you don't have the time or energy to book a blood test, order one online. Your health should be your biggest priority, especially as you age. Have more control over your health with regular blood testing.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. The information contained herein is not a substitute for and should never be relied upon for professional medical advice. Always talk to your physician about the risks and benefits of any treatment. Nu Image Medical may not offer the medications or services mentioned in this article.