Do You Know Your Numbers?

Ignorance is bliss, except when we’re talking about our annual physical stats.

We’ve all heard our doctors read numbers from our charts. You know the numbers are important, but do you know what the numbers mean and what they tell you and your doctor about your health?

BLOOD PRESSURE


  • Why it’s important: High blood pressure can lead to heart attack, stroke and kidney disease
  • Target Range:
  • Below 140/90 for anyone from 18-59 years of age or anyone over 60 years old who also has diabetes or kidney problems
  • Below 150/90 for anyone over 60 years old who doesn’t have diabetes or kidney problems
  • Ways to stay on track: limit sodium, exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight or lose extra weight


CHOLESTEROL


  • Why it’s important: A healthy cholesterol level helps reduce your risk for heart attack and stroke
  • Target Range: total cholesterol <200 mg/dL
  • Ways to stay on track: exercise and avoid tobacco use (smoking)


WAIST SIZE


  • Why it’s important: Waist size is one way to measure abdominal fat. By carrying less fat around your midsection, you can decrease your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and other health conditions.
  • Target Range: 40” or less for men and 35” or less for women
  • Ways to stay on track: exercise and a healthy diet


BODY MASS INDEX (BMI)


  • Why it’s important: BMI is a calculation based on your height and weight that can help determine if you’re at a healthy weight, underweight or overweight. As your BMI gets higher, you have a greater risk of some diseases, including high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, osteoarthritis, some cancers and type 2 diabetes.
  • Target Range: 19-24.9, for most adults
  • Ways to stay on track: exercise and a healthy diet
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