Finally had my annual checkup on Thursday with my GP. I was fully prepared to hear about the new BP guidelines, but apparently, my GP is not strictly following them. Due to the early morning hour of the appointment, he was the one who measured my BP, and it read 136/73. I usually get higher readings at the doctor's office. He was pleased. After discussing general history, he recommended a blood lipid test. I indicated to him that if it were to be a simple blood cholesterol test with estimated LDL, I was not interested. Rather, I wanted a full NMR Lipid panel, as I told him that I believe that cholesterol is not a valid health marker. He told me he felt it was a waste of money, but wrote the order. I left it at that, as I feel a simple cholesterol test is a waste of money and time as well.

As for the BP, I was relieved not to have the discussion regarding the new guidelines.