Your yearly blood work gives your provider information they can’t see during a physical exam, sometimes before you notice any symptoms at all. Blood work isn’t only for sick visits – routine lab work plays a key role in preventive care and long-term health. 
 
In Sylva, North Carolina, many adults complete annual blood work as part of a routine physical with a primary care provider at Harris Regional Hospital. These standard tests offer insight into how well your organs are functioning, and where small changes today could prevent bigger problems tomorrow. 

 
Why Annual Blood Work Matters 

Blood work shows where your health stands at a specific point in time using real data. Even more important, it allows your provider to compare results year over year. Small shifts in your labs can point to issues that aren’t causing symptoms yet. 
 
Conditions like heart disease, diabetes, kidney disease, and some vitamin deficiencies can develop quietly – By the time symptoms show up, damage may already be underway. Catching these changes early can give you and your provider more options for managing them, when lifestyle changes or simple treatments can make a meaningful difference. 
 
Annual blood work is especially important if you: 

• Have a family history of heart disease, diabetes, or cancer 

• Are managing chronic conditions such as high blood pressure 

• Are over age 60 

• Take long-term medications 

• Have not had blood work done in the past year 

Preventive care benefits for adults   

Common Blood Tests and What They Reveal 

• Complete Blood Count (CBC): Identifies infections, anemia, inflammation, or immune issues. 

• Cholesterol Panel (Lipid Panel): Measures heart attack and stroke risk. 

• Blood Glucose or A1C: Screens for prediabetes or diabetes early. 

• Kidney Function Tests: Reveal how effectively the kidneys filter waste and maintain fluid and electrolyte balance. 

• Liver Function Tests: Identify inflammation or medication effects. 

   

What Blood Work Can Catch Early 

Routine blood tests may help detect increased risk for heart disease, prediabetes or diabetes, kidney or liver problems, vitamin or mineral deficiencies, and thyroid imbalances. 

 
Why Trends Matter More Than One Result 

One abnormal result doesn’t always mean something is wrong. Providers look for patterns over time – gradual changes that may signal developing risk. Changes from year to year, not just a single result, usually give the clearest picture.  

 
Talk With a Primary Care Provider 

Review your results with a provider who knows your health history and can explain what they mean for you. Your primary care provider can explain what your numbers mean and recommend the next steps if needed. 
 
Find a Primary Care Provider at Harris Regional Hospital
Learn More About Preventive Care
 
Your yearly labs help paint a clearer picture of your overall health. Annual blood work helps you stay proactive, informed, and one step ahead – not just this year, but for the years to come.