When it comes to safeguarding your health, one of the most important things you can do is know where you stand.

Regular health checkups and screenings can give you the tools you need to know your health status and risk factors.

There are many indicators of health. Some of the main ones you should know are:

• Blood Pressure: High blood pressure increases your risk of heart attack, stroke or kidney disease. Nutrition, physical activity, stress and heredity all play a role in determining your blood pressure. Your blood pressure should be less than 120 over 80.
• Blood Sugar: Glucose, the sugar stored in your blood, should be less than 100. Glucose levels that are too high or too low can indicate diabetes.
• Cholesterol: The normal range for cholesterol is 200 or less. High total cholesterol can lead to heart attack or stroke. The level of HDL (or good cholesterol) and LDL (bad cholesterol) is also important to know.
• Body Mass Index: This is a measure of your height in relation to your weight. A healthy BMI is less than 25.

  Compute your Body Mass Index

• Family History: Many health risk factors are passed on within families. Knowing if a close relative has or had some serious health issues can be a warning for you.

Regular check-ups with your health care provider or attendance at a health screening can give you the information you need to improve your health.