Your Health Report Card: Key Numbers to Track
Did you know that nearly half of U.S. adults have high blood pressure, and more than 1 in 3 adults have prediabetes? What’s worse is many don’t even know it. Understanding your health numbers is one of the simplest ways to stay proactive about your health. These important measurements offer a snapshot for today and provide a starting point for conversations with your healthcare provider.
What Numbers Should You Know?
Blood Pressure: Normal is below 120/80 mmHg. Elevated begins at 120-129/<80, while 130/80 or higher may indicate hypertension.
Total Cholesterol: Aim for less than 200 mg/dL.
LDL ("Bad") Cholesterol: Ideally below 100 mg/dL.
HDL ("Good") Cholesterol: Aim for 40 mg/dL or higher for men and 50 mg/dL or higher for women.
Fasting Blood Sugar: Normal is 70-99 mg/dL. Prediabetes begins at 100-125 mg/dL.
BMI: A healthy BMI generally falls between 18.5 and 24.9.
Ways to Stay On Top of Your Health Numbers
Schedule Your Annual Physical: Preventive screenings can catch potential issues before symptoms appear.
Review Your Benefits: Most of our health plans cover these preventive and routine wellness exams at little or no cost.
Track Your Progress: Keep a record of your health numbers each year; discuss trends with your provider.
Focus on Small Changes: Regular exercise, healthy meal choices, sleep, and stress management can help with nearly every one of these metrics.
Knowing your health numbers isn't about being perfect. It's about being informed. A simple screening today could identify an issue early when it's easier to manage. Make it a goal to know your numbers before the year ends and take advantage of the preventive care benefits available through your health plan.
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