Description

A Men’s Advanced Wellness Blood Panel is a comprehensive diagnostic tool that provides an in-depth analysis of a man’s overall health and wellness. This panel is designed to identify potential health concerns early, allowing for timely treatment and better long-term health management. It evaluates various biomarkers, including hormones, vitamins, and metabolic factors, to provide a detailed picture of a man's physiological status. Regular testing can help detect issues related to heart health, hormone levels, nutrient deficiencies, and more.

Key Biomarkers Included:

1. CBC Test (Complete Blood Count with Differential)

The CBC is a comprehensive test that assesses the overall health of the blood, providing insight into red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, and platelet levels. This test helps to identify a wide range of conditions, including anemia, infections, and blood cancers.

  • Normal range: Varies based on age and gender. Low levels of red blood cells (anemia) or elevated white blood cell count (infection) can be flagged for further investigation.

2. CMP Test (Comprehensive Metabolic Panel)

The CMP measures glucose levels, electrolytes, kidney and liver function, and protein levels. This test is crucial for detecting issues such as diabetes, kidney disease, liver disease, and electrolyte imbalances. It provides valuable insight into the body's metabolic status and organ health.

  • Normal range: Varies based on specific components tested, but abnormalities may indicate metabolic or organ dysfunction.

3. Dehydroepiandrosterone Sulfate (DHEA-S)

DHEA-S is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, serving as a precursor to both testosterone and estrogen. Low levels of DHEA-S can lead to fatigue, muscle loss, and sexual dysfunction, while elevated levels can indicate potential adrenal issues.

  • Normal range: Varies by age, with lower levels commonly seen as men age.

4. Ferritin Test

Ferritin measures the amount of stored iron in the body. Low levels can indicate iron deficiency, while high levels may signal iron overload, liver disease, or chronic inflammation.

  • Normal range: Varies based on age and gender, with lower levels indicating anemia and higher levels suggesting iron overload.

5. Follicle-Stimulating Hormone (FSH) and Luteinizing Hormone (LH)

Both FSH and LH are key hormones involved in regulating the production of testosterone and sperm. These tests are critical for assessing reproductive health and identifying issues such as low testosterone or infertility.

  • Normal range: Varies, with elevated FSH or LH levels suggesting possible gonadal dysfunction or pituitary gland issues.

6. Free T4

Free T4 is the active form of the thyroid hormone thyroxine. It plays a key role in regulating metabolism, energy production, and growth. Abnormal levels of T4 can indicate thyroid dysfunction, including hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism.

  • Normal range: Varies depending on laboratory reference ranges, but abnormal levels can suggest thyroid disorders.

7. Growth Hormone

Growth Hormone (GH) is responsible for promoting growth, regulating metabolism, and maintaining muscle and bone mass. Low GH levels can lead to decreased muscle mass, increased fat, and fatigue, while high levels can be associated with conditions like acromegaly.

  • Normal range: Declines naturally with age. Imbalances can lead to growth disorders or metabolic issues.

8. Homocysteine

Homocysteine is an amino acid that, at elevated levels, is a known risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, including stroke and heart attack. This test is useful for assessing heart health and monitoring individuals at risk for cardiovascular conditions.

  • Normal range: Elevated levels increase the risk for heart disease and require further investigation or lifestyle changes.

9. HS-CRP (High Sensitivity C-Reactive Protein)

HS-CRP is a biomarker for inflammation and is used to assess the risk of cardiovascular disease. High levels of CRP indicate systemic inflammation, which can contribute to the development of heart disease, diabetes, and other chronic conditions.

  • Normal range: Low levels suggest a low risk for heart disease, while elevated levels may indicate a higher risk of cardiovascular problems.

10. Insulin-like Growth Factor (IGF-1)

IGF-1 plays an important role in cell growth and development, especially during childhood. It is produced in response to growth hormone (GH) and is a key indicator of GH activity. Abnormal levels of IGF-1 can be associated with growth disorders, aging, and cancer.

  • Normal range: Elevated levels may indicate growth hormone excess, while low levels can suggest growth hormone deficiency.

11. Lipid Panel Test / Cholesterol Panel Test

The lipid panel measures levels of total cholesterol, HDL (good) cholesterol, LDL (bad) cholesterol, and triglycerides. This test is essential for assessing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other cardiovascular conditions.

  • Normal range: Healthy levels of HDL, LDL, and total cholesterol are crucial for cardiovascular health.

12. Progesterone

While progesterone is considered a female hormone, it is also important in men, where it helps regulate testosterone levels and mood. Abnormal progesterone levels can be linked to issues like low testosterone or infertility.

  • Normal range: Typically low in men, but can indicate hormonal imbalances when elevated.

13. PSA: Free and Total Test (Prostate-Specific Antigen)

PSA is a protein produced by the prostate gland. Elevated levels can indicate prostate cancer, benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH), or prostatitis. Regular monitoring of PSA levels is critical for prostate health.

  • Normal range: Varies with age, but elevated levels may require further investigation for prostate-related issues.

14. Testosterone

Testosterone is the primary male sex hormone and plays a crucial role in regulating libido, muscle mass, bone density, and mood. Low levels of testosterone can lead to fatigue, decreased libido, and depression.

  • Normal range: Testosterone naturally declines with age, but significantly low levels can indicate hypogonadism.

15. TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Blood Test

TSH is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland that regulates thyroid function. Abnormal TSH levels can indicate thyroid disorders like hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism, affecting metabolism, energy levels, and overall health.

  • Normal range: Elevated TSH suggests hypothyroidism, while low TSH may indicate hyperthyroidism.

16. Total Iron-Binding Capacity (TIBC)

TIBC is a measure of the blood's ability to bind iron. This test helps assess iron levels and diagnose conditions such as iron-deficiency anemia or iron overload.

  • Normal range: Varies, but abnormal levels may indicate issues related to iron metabolism.

17. Vitamin B12 and Folate

Vitamin B12 and folate are essential for red blood cell production and neurological health. Deficiencies can cause anemia, fatigue, and neuropathy.

  • Normal range: Both vitamins are crucial for nervous system function and overall health.

18. Vitamin D, 25 (25-OH Vitamin D)

Vitamin D is essential for bone health, immune function, and muscle strength. Low levels can contribute to bone loss, muscle weakness, and increased risk of infections.

  • Normal range: Deficiency can lead to osteoporosis, autoimmune diseases, and other health concerns.

Fasting Recommendations:

Fasting is recommended for the Men's Advanced Wellness Blood Panel to ensure the accuracy of test results, particularly for lipid, glucose, and hormone levels.

Conclusion:

The Men’s Advanced Wellness Blood Panel is a comprehensive tool for monitoring a wide range of biomarkers that impact men’s overall health. Regular testing can help identify potential health concerns early and enable men to take proactive steps toward better health.