Know Your
Numbers

At Blue Cure, we believe knowledge is power. Understanding your key health numbers isn’t just about lab results—it’s about catching silent threats early and taking action. Whether you’re staying proactive or managing a diagnosis, these are the numbers every man should know.


Core Health Metrics

Blood Pressure

What it tells you:
The force of your blood against artery walls. High blood pressure (hypertension) increases risk for heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and erectile dysfunction.

Why it matters:
Often symptomless but damaging over time

Ideal:
Around 120/80 mmHg

Blood Sugar (Fasting Glucose & A1C)

What it tells you:
Glucose levels in your blood. Elevated numbers may indicate pre-diabetes or diabetes.

Ideal:
Fasting Glucose:
<100 mg/dL
A1C: Below 5.7% = normal
5.7–6.4% = pre-diabetes
Above 6.5% = diabetes

Cholesterol Panel (Lipid Profile)

What it tells you:
Risk for heart disease and stroke. Get a full panel that includes:

Total Cholesterol: <200 mg/dL
HDL (“Good”): >40 mg/dL for men
LDL (“Bad”): <100 mg/dL (optimal)
Triglycerides: <150 mg/dL

Body Fat Percentage

What it tells you:
The percentage of your body made up of fat. BMI alone isn’t enough

Why it matters:
High body fat increases risk for chronic conditions and hormonal imbalances.

Ideal:
10–20% for most men

Additional Numbers to KNow

PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen)

What it tells you:
A protein produced by the prostate. Elevated levels may indicate inflammation, enlargement, or cancer.

Ideal:
No universal “normal”—context and trend over time matter. Discuss baseline testing by age 40–45 if you’re at higher risk (Black men, family history, lifestyle factors).

Testosterone (Total & Free)

What it tells you:
Hormonal health, which affects energy, mood, muscle mass, libido, and overall well-being.

Ideal:
• Normal ranges: 300–1000 ng/dL for Total Testosterone
• Symptoms of low-T can occur even within “normal” lab ranges

Lipoprotein(a)

What it tells you:
A genetically influenced type of LDL cholesterol that increases risk for early heart disease.

Facts:
• This is a one-time test unless elevated
• Not included in routine cholesterol tests

CBC (Complete Blood Count)

What it tells you:
Gives a snapshot of overall health by measuring red cells, white cells, and platelets.

Facts:
• Helps detect infection, anemia, inflammation, or blood cancers

Lifestyle Habits That Can Improve These Numbers:

Nutrition: Emphasize a high-fiber, plant-forward diet (leafy greens, beans, berries, whole grains)

Exercise: Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio + 2–3 strength sessions per week

Sleep: Prioritize 7–9 hours per night

Stress: Chronic stress can elevate blood pressure, blood sugar, and inflammation

Avoid Tobacco: Reduces cancer and cardiovascular risk

Limit Alcohol: Especially important for blood pressure and hormonal balance

Why This Matters:

Men are less likely than women to see a doctor regularly. That delay can cost lives. By understanding and tracking these numbers, men can take charge of their health, detect problems early, and take proactive steps toward prevention and wellness.


This page is for informational purposes only and not a substitute for medical advice. Talk to your healthcare provider about your specific risks and testing schedule.

Sources: CDC, American Heart Association, American Diabetes Association, American Urological Association, NIH, Mayo Clinic.