Health Screenings

Blood Pressure Checks

Know your numbers. Your local Public Health office can check your blood pressure and provide you with information about your numbers.  

High blood pressure, or hypertension, is a condition in which the pressure of the blood against blood vessel walls is too strong. High blood pressure usually does not have symptoms but when left untreated, high blood pressure can cause damage to the vessels and lead to other problems, including heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.

Normal blood pressure: systolic (top number) less than 120 and diastolic (bottom number) less than 80

High blood pressure (hypertension): systolic of 140 or higher or diastolic of 90 or higher

Your blood pressure can change with activity, posture, movement, and other factors. It is important to take your blood pressure after rest in a sitting position.

A single high reading does not mean that you have high blood pressure, but if your numbers stay high over time, your health care provider may recommend a treatment program.
About High Blood Pressure - MN Dept. of Health

Cholesterol Screening

Know your number. Your local public health office is able to check your cholesterol blood level with a simple finger stick. They will discuss your findings with you and provide information about your number. Cholesterol is just one part of your body’s circulating fat. If this level is elevated above 200 mg/dl, you may need further blood testing done by your provider.

Cholesterol is a waxy, fat-like substance that's found in all your cells and is necessary to help your body function properly. If you have too much cholesterol in your blood, it can combine with other substances to form plaque that can lead to narrowed arteries and possibly a heart attack or stroke. A healthy diet, regular exercise, and medication if needed can help reduce high cholesterol.
About Cholesterol - MN Dept. of Health

Blood Sugar Screening

Know your number. Your local public health office is able to check your blood sugar level with a simple finger stick. They will discuss your findings with you and provide information about your number.

If you have diabetes, your body either doesn’t make enough insulin or can’t use the insulin it makes as well as it should. When there isn’t enough insulin or cells stop responding to insulin, too much blood sugar stays in your bloodstream, which over time can cause serious health problems, such as heart disease, vision loss and kidney disease.

There are different types of diabetes. If your screening blood sugar level is elevated, you may need to see your healthcare provider for a consultation to determine if you have diabetes and determine the type you have. You may also need more testing.
Diabetes Basics - MN Dept. of Health