The power of knowing: When biomarker data turns into better health 

David, 76, never liked going to the doctor. So, when he heard that Medcan’s Annual Health Assessment involved five hours at a clinic and an in-depth review of more than 100 health biomarkers, his first reaction was an instinctive, “No thanks.” 

The idea didn’t go away, though. His daughter had completed the assessment and urged him to do the same. The second time she asked, he paused and gave it more thought. For his health – and for his family – David decided it was time to take a closer look. And he’s glad he did because what he discovered surprised him. 

After learning more about the process and meeting Dr. Peter Nord, Medcan’s chief medical officer, David was impressed by the approach. “I enjoyed Dr. Nord’s professionalism, his warmth, and his calm, confident manner,” he says. “I felt unpressured, which for me was very important.” The welcoming atmosphere of the clinic sealed the deal. “From start to finish, the level of professionalism and warmth never changed. I was quite happy.” 

Walking through Medcan’s doors marked the beginning of an eye-opening experience. The assessment led to small but meaningful changes to David’s sleep, nutrition and exercise habits – adjustments that will have a lasting impact on his health. 

David says he’s now glad he took the chance to “open the book” on his health. Reading the results gave him the data he needed to make small, positive changes that give him a path to pursuing his longest, healthiest life. 

If health data seems intimidating, transform it into strength by getting curious 

Without clear, tangible data, it can be difficult to make informed decisions about lifestyle changes, like what foods to eat, exercises to do, or which supplements you truly need. 

Yet for many, the idea of getting these numbers can feel intimidating. That’s why Medcan’s goal is to both empower you with insights and to guide you each step of the way with the support of an expert clinical team. 

David’s initial hesitation faded when his assessment pointed to metrics that signaled changes he needed to make. “I learned quite a lot during the interview process, and even more when I read the summaries from the evaluations. It was interesting to see what changes I needed to make.” 

One insight his report pointed to was poor sleep quality. Like many people, David realized his evening technology habits were affecting his sleeping patterns, and he didn’t sleep enough. “It’s so important to get your eight hours,” he says. Putting down his cell phone and turning off YouTube or Netflix before bed was one simple lifestyle change he’s implemented that’s made a significant difference since his evaluation. 

He also discovered areas for improvement in fitness and nutrition. Medcan’s assessment analyses biometrics like heart rate, V02 sub-max and grip strength that provide critical data on physical strengths and growth areas. "I learned about my fitness – or lack thereof – and that I needed to get back up to snuff.” He’s now walking and exercising more and enrolled in a gym to improve his physical fitness. 

Armed with knowledge, David has made gradual but meaningful changes. Decreasing sugar intake, for example, is another simple, positive shift he’s made to his diet given findings from his assessment. “Two teaspoons in the morning? No, you don’t need that. One is enough,” David says. And some days he goes with zero sugar, which he says hasn’t been difficult. 

Breakfast has also become more balanced. “In the back of my mind, I’ve always known I needed to eat better at breakfast, but I never practiced it regularly.” His test results gave him the evidence he needed to improve his first meal of the day, ensuring it includes all the important food groups and nutrients his body needs. 

David says he now feels better – in his body and mind. 

Great health starts with an open mind and willingness to know where you’re starting 

For anyone considering the Annual Health Assessment, David’s advice is to be open-minded. “Don’t prejudge anything. I did, based on the fact that it was going to be five hours. But that was the fastest five hours I’ve spent. It just went by because of the atmosphere – beautiful, relaxing, no pressure.”  

While five hours can seem like a lot, many see their Annual Health Assessment as a cost savings, given they’re getting numerous tests done in one day with now no need to wait for imaging appointments and no blood work in advance. 

He recommends it to anybody who has concerns about their health and well-being because it’s worth it. “The average health professional doesn’t always have time. So, to go through five hours of opening the book on your life and understanding what you do wrong and what you do well? That’s great.” 

Awareness is the first step to lifelong health. Know your biomarkers so you can make educated health adjustments specific to what your body needs. With the right information and support, small changes lead to big improvements – empowering you to take control of your future. 

Take action

To get deep insights on your biomarkers, like David did, learn more about Medcan's Annual Health Assessment. It's designed for anyone seeking a proactive approach to health management and helps you identify risk areas and increases the opportunity for early detection of significant health concerns, such as cancer, heart disease, and diabetes.