Terminology, Descriptions and References
Active Time
Active time, recorded by wearable devices, refers to the duration spent engaging in physical activities like walking, running, or exercising. It tracks movement intensity and duration to assess physical activity levels.
Being active has multiple health benefits. Benefits include improved cardiovascular health, increased energy levels, better mental well-being, weight management, and reduced risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension and stronger muscles and bones. Regular physical activity also boosts energy levels and promotes overall longevity.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/1C7FD
https://www.cdc.gov/physical-activity-basics/guidelines/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/exercise/art-20048389
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity
Age
Age is the number of years that have passed since they were born. Each year after birth is counted as one more year of age. As people get older, the risk of injury and chronic diseases increases, especially if they have factors like malnutrition, serious injuries during youth, or hereditary conditions.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/AEEE9
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/age
Body Fat Percentage
Body fat percentage refers to the proportion of fat mass relative to a person’s total body weight, excluding components like muscle, bone, organs, and water. This metric provides a direct measure of body composition, making it a useful indicator of overall fitness regardless of a person’s height or weight.
Body fat plays an essential role in maintaining bodily functions. It helps regulate blood glucose levels, stores energy, assists in hormone production, and supports metabolic and cardiovascular health. Having too little body fat can disrupt these functions, just as having too much can increase the risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and hormonal imbalances. Healthy body fat percentage ranges differ between males and females, and age categories. It is commonly measured using methods like skinfold callipers, which estimate subcutaneous fat in various body areas.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/AEEE9
https://www.forbes.com/health/body/body-fat-percentage/
Body Shape Index
A Body Shape Index (ABSI) is a calculated value that uses the computed waist circumference (using age, biological gender at birth, height and weight) in relation to BMI and height, helping to assess body shape. It is another indicator used to assist in understanding the risk of chronic diseases, for example diabetes.
ABSI, or A Body Shape Index, helps assess the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease (CVD) and diabetes. The result is linked to mortality in the general population and is connected to visceral fat mass, which is fat around the organs.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/95435
https://drc.bmj.com/content/4/1/e000188
Breathing rate is the total breaths taken (inhaled and exhaled) per minute, and best measured at rest (when in a relaxed state). Breathing rates vary based on age and gender. The normal range for adults is between 12 and 20.
It is normal for breathing rate to increase during and after exercise, but also due to fever or sickness. It can also be affected by medical conditions or a state of stress and anxiety. Irregular breathing rates could signal health concerns. Monitoring breathing rate for health is best done at rest, not during or after intense activity. Changes in breathing rate, especially if irregular, can signal a health problem.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/65AD
https://www.mayoclinic.org/how-to-measure-respiratory-rate/art-20482580
https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-is-a-normal-respiratory-rate-2248932
The Body Mass Index (BMI) is a way to see if someone is overweight by comparing their weight to their height. The more overweight (physical fat storage, not muscle), the higher the risk for chronic diseases. It is calculated by dividing weight in kilograms by height in meters squared.
BMI is a useful tool for identifying the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes, except in cases of pregnancy or for athletes with more muscle than fat. Higher BMIs often lead to increased blood sugar levels, which can cause type 2 diabetes. This, in turn, can damage blood vessels and increase the risk of heart and circulatory diseases like hypertension.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/4CA14
https://www.bhf.org.uk/what-we-do/news-from-the-bhf/news-archive/2020/august/body-mass-index-is-a-more-powerful-risk-factor-for-diabetes-than-genetics
https://www.cdc.gov/obesity/
https://www.health24.com/Medical/Heart/Heart-attack/Know-your-numbers-for-a-healthy-heart-20120721
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/
https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/educational/lose_wt/BMI/bmicalc.htm
https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/lifestyle/what-is-the-body-mass-index-bmi/
https://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20140328/underweight-even-deadlier-than-overweight-study-says
Calculated waist circumference is the calculated estimate measurement of waist size, in centimetres. The calculation considers age, gender at birth, height and weight.
The calculated waist circumference is not an actual measurement, but is a calculated estimate that uses specific information, such as their age, gender at birth, height, and weight. Optimal ranges differs between males and females, and per ethnicity and nationality.
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Calories Burned is the number of calories a body uses (burns into energy) during a day.
Calories are the fuel our bodies need to do everything, like breathing, moving, and carrying out cell processes. Having too few or too many calories can cause problems. Too many calories often lead to weight gain, which can lead to obesity and other health issues. It’s important to burn enough calories for our bodies to work properly, which is key to staying healthy.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/A563C
https://www.healthline.com/health/fitness-exercise/how-many-calories-do-i-burn-a-day
https://www.vertexknowledge.com/post/how-do-smartwatches-measure-calories-tech-knowledge
Cardiac output is the amount of blood the heart pumps through the circulatory system per minute, determined by the stroke volume (blood pumped per heartbeat) and heart rate. Cardiac output is a vital indicator of how well the heart is functioning and how effectively it is supplying the body with oxygenated blood.
A low resting cardiac output means that the heart is not pumping enough blood. It may indicate heart failure, blood loss, severe infection (sepsis), or heart damage. Normal output means the heart is supplying adequate blood to the body. High resting cardiac output can result from conditions like severe infections, anaemia, or hyperthyroidism, often as a response to the body’s increased need for oxygen or hormonal imbalance. It is normal for cardiac output to increase during exercise, and during acute mental stress situations. It is always better to speak to a healthcare professional if you are concerned.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/28A05
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK513337/
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diagnostics/23344-cardiac-output
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24660-high-output-heart-failure
https://link.springer.com/referenceworkentry/10.1007/978-1-4419-1005-9_235
https://www.cdc.gov/heart-disease/risk-factors/index.html
Cardiac Workload is a calculated value using pulse rate and Systolic Blood Pressure. It reflects how hard the heart is working and is influenced by factors such as heart rate, blood pressure, volume of blood pumped (cardiac output), and the resistance the heart must overcome (afterload).
Cardiac workload shows how much stress your heart muscles are under. Heart muscles can become stressed, which can be harmful. The Cardiac Workload, calculated by multiplying the pulse rate by Systolic Blood Pressure, is most accurate when taken at rest. It’s normal for Cardiac Workload to rise during exercise but should return to normal afterward, but a consistent elevated workload can strain the heart, especially if it’s due to high blood pressure, stress, obesity, or cardiovascular diseases.
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The Cardiovascular Disease Risk score represents the likelihood (in percentage) to experience cardiovascular problems such as a heart attack, stroke, or peripheral artery disease in the next 10 years.
The Cardiovascular Disease Risk was developed based on insights from the Framingham method and multiple studies that focused on cardiovascular state of health over a period of 10 years. The score considers gender at birth, Body Mass Index, Systolic Blood Pressure, smoking and diabetes status, and antihypertensive medication use.
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Diabetes risk probability is the likelihood (expressed in percentage) that you are at risk of type 2 diabetes. The prediction is based on your immediate health scan results and demographics (age, gender, weight, height). Your level is based on research comparing people with similar demographics and scan results who had HbA1c levels less than 5.7 and those equal and above 5.7.
A person’s predicated diabetes risk can change slightly with each measurement due to natural body fluctuations, and external factors beyond diabetes, during the day. The most accurate estimate comes from averaging readings taken on the day and over several days. A HbA1c blood test measures this to estimate a person’s average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. It is recommended that those with a constant high result, averaged for a day, and compared to other days, consider going to the doctor for diabetes screening.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/E53EF
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/prevention/pdf/Prediabetes-Risk-Test-Final.pdf
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/risk-factors/index.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20351193
The second number in your blood pressure reading is called diastolic. It shows how much pressure the blood vessels have when the heart is resting between beats.
Low blood pressure and no other symptoms are not serious. High blood pressure (hypertension) might not have noticeable symptoms but can be dangerous. Risk rises with age and can be genetic or caused by weight, inactivity, salt, smoking, or alcohol. Risk factors are split into modifiable (can be changed with lifestyle) and non-modifiable (can’t be changed, like genetics).
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/18BDE
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/17649-blood-pressure
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/the-facts-about-high-blood-pressure
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/understanding-blood-pressure-readings
https://www.heartfoundation.co.za/blood-pressure/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/blood-pressure/art-20050982
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-blood-pressure/symptoms-causes/syc-20355465
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/270644#ranges
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension
Fatty Liver Disease Risk is the probability, in percentage, that you are at risk of fatty liver disease, based on their health scan results and demographics (age, gender, weight, height). Your risk score is based on extensive research comparing people with similar demographics and scan results who were diagnosed with fatty liver disease and accumulated liver fat higher than 5% of its total mass.
Fatty liver disease occurs when too much fat (triglyceride lipids) builds up in the liver cells, making it larger than normal. People who have been diagnosed with fatty liver disease have an abnormally large liver due to triglyceride lipids that accumulate in the liver cells. Excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet with high fructose intake, and obesity increase the risk of developing this disease: it may impair liver function and promote excessive storage of fatty acids in the liver.
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https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fatty_liver_disease
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/nonalcoholic-fatty-liver-disease/symptoms-causes/syc-2035456
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/liver-problems/symptoms-causes/syc-20374502
Gender at birth refers to the biological and physiological characteristics associated with the specific gender at birth.
In this context, gender refers to their biological attributes at birth, including chromosomes, hormones, and reproductive organs, which are typically categorized as male or female. Some health metrics may be calculated differently and have different optimal ranges based on these common biological differences between males and females.
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https://www.who.int/health-topics/gender
An anxiety score as calculated after completing the General Anxiety Disorder-7 (GAD-7) survey.
The GAD-7 (General Anxiety Disorder-7) survey has 7 questions and is used to gauge how severe anxiety symptoms are. It can be used at the start to assess symptoms or over time to track changes or the effectiveness of treatment. The questions mainly cover the top 4 anxiety disorders: Generalized Anxiety Disorder, Panic Disorder, Social Phobia, and Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder.
https://adaa.org/understanding-anxiety/facts-statistics
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/59120
https://newsinhealth.nih.gov/2018/02/power-pets
https://www.beyondblue.org.au/mental-health/anxiety/treatments-for-anxiety/anxiety-management-strategies
https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/1727/gad7-general-anxiety-disorder7
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7604697/
https://www.therecoveryvillage.com/mental-health/anxiety/anxiety-disorder-statistics/
Glucose level testing measures the amount of sugar in your blood with a small drop of blood, often from your finger. For a fasting test, you do it in the morning after not eating or drinking for 8 hours.
Glucose is an important energy source for the body, mainly obtained from food and drink. Insulin, a hormone, helps cells use this energy properly. The body produces insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. When insulin levels are off, glucose can stay too high (hyperglycaemia) or too low (hypoglycaemia) in the blood. A random glucose test may be followed by a fasting glucose test to confirm a diagnosis.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/12DF3
https://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetes_care/blood-sugar-level-ranges.html
https://www.diabetessa.org.za/hypoglycaemia/
https://www.discovery.co.za/assets/discoverycoza/corporate/wellness-assessment-guide.pdf
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371451
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323022
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/body/blood-sugar-glucose-levels-mean-should/
Glucose level testing checks the amount of sugar in your blood using just a tiny drop of blood, often taken from your finger. You can do this test at any time during the day.
Glucose is an important energy source for the body, mainly obtained from food and drink. Insulin, a hormone, helps cells use this energy properly. The body produces insulin to regulate blood glucose levels. When insulin levels are off, glucose can stay too high (hyperglycaemia) or too low (hypoglycaemia) in the blood. A random glucose test may be followed by a fasting glucose test to confirm a diagnosis.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/9A287
https://www.diabetes.co.uk/diabetes_care/blood-sugar-level-ranges.html
https://www.diabetessa.org.za/hypoglycaemia/
https://www.discovery.co.za/assets/discoverycoza/corporate/wellness-assessment-guide.pdf
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/diabetes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20371451
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323022
https://www.telegraph.co.uk/health-fitness/body/blood-sugar-glucose-levels-mean-should/
HbA1c, or glycated haemoglobin, shows how much glucose is attached to haemoglobin in your blood. The result, measured as a percentage, tells you the percentage of glucose in your blood.
HbA1c % results show the average amount of sugar in the blood over about 120 days, which is how long red blood cells live. Haemoglobin (Hb) is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. HbA1c tests help diagnose type 2 diabetes and check how well it’s controlled. For diabetics, the test is done every 3 months.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/E1F21
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/treatment/index.html
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/managing-your-diabetes/hba1c
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4933534/
HbA1c, or glycated haemoglobin, shows how much glucose is attached to haemoglobin in your blood. The result, measured as a percentage, tells you the percentage of glucose in your blood.
HbA1c % results show the average amount of sugar in the blood over about 120 days, which is how long red blood cells live. Haemoglobin (Hb) is a protein in red blood cells that carries oxygen throughout the body. HbA1c tests help diagnose type 2 diabetes and check how well it’s controlled. For diabetics, the test is done every 3 months.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/E1F21
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/treatment/index.html
https://www.diabetes.org.uk/guide-to-diabetes/managing-your-diabetes/hba1c
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4933534/
HbA1c Risk
Haemoglobin A1c Risk is the probability of prediabetes, in percentage, based on your immediate health scan results and demographics (age, gender, weight, height). Your risk score is based on extensive research comparing people with similar demographics and scan results who were diagnosed with prediabetes. HbA1c (glycated haemoglobin), forms when sugar in the blood attaches to red blood cells.
A person’s risk level can change slightly with each measurement due to natural body fluctuations, and external factors beyond diabetes, during the day. The most accurate risk estimate comes from averaging readings taken on the day and over several days. A HbA1c blood test measures this to estimate a person’s average blood sugar levels over the past 2–3 months. It is recommended that those with a constant high result, averaged for a day, and compared to other days, consider going to the doctor for diabetes screening.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/D1AE1
https://www.healthline.com/health/diabetes/high-bg-or-a1c-during-routine-doc-visit
https://www.healthline.com/health/type-2-diabetes/sneaky-reasons-glucose-levels-fluctuate
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/a1c-test/about/pac-20384643
HDL
HDL, or High-density lipoprotein, helps remove excess cholesterol from the body. It’s often called ‘good cholesterol’.
High-density lipoprotein (HDL) helps carry cholesterol through the arteries to the liver, where it’s broken down and removed from the body. Healthy HDL levels can reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. The ideal levels may vary slightly depending on the country.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/173E1
https://world-heart-federation.org/what-we-do/cholesterol/
https://www.testing.com/tests/hdl-cholesterol/
The Heart Attack Risk score indicates the chance, given as a percentage, of experiencing a heart attack in the next 10 years.
The Heart Attack Risk score was developed based on insights from the Framingham method and multiple studies that focused on cardiovascular state of health over a period of 10 years. The score considers gender at birth, Body Mass Index, Systolic Blood Pressure, smoking and diabetes status, and antihypertensive medication use.
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Heart rate refers to the speed at which a heart beats, measured in beats-per-minute (bpm). Heart rate may also be called pulse rate. A resting heart rate indicates how many times the heart beats in a minute, pumping just enough blood needed to live, when at rest and not performing physical activities.
A resting heart rate for healthy, relaxed and calm teenagers and adults is between 60 and 100 beats per minute. This can change during the day, and is affected by factors like fitness levels, and use of medication. Very fit and healthy people can have a lower resting heart rate. Depending on age, and fitness levels, continuous out-of-range resting heart rates could be a sign of a health condition. Note that it is normal for heart to beat faster when your body is trying to fight off an infection or during exercise.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/F2953
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/ask-the-experts/pulse-rate
https://www.nia.nih.gov/health/heart-health/heart-health-and-aging
https://www.verywellhealth.com/resting-heart-rate-by-age-5218932
Heart Rate Variability (HRV) refers to how the time (in milliseconds) between each heartbeat fluctuates. HRV is a good indication of physical health and the body’s ability to perform.
It is normal for the rate to become slower as one ages, and is impacted by many factors, such as fitness levels, stress and anxiety, blood pressure, sleep patterns, activity levels, and diet. Typically, Heart Rate Variability will decrease as one gets older. It is a difficult metric to interpret on its own. It is always better to speak to a healthcare professional if you are concerned.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/19665
https://www.realsimple.com/health/preventative-health/heart-health/what-is-heart-rate-variability
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21773-heart-rate-variability-hrv
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WpZHuA-RFn4&t=1229s
https://www.kubios.com/blog/about-heart-rate-variability/
https://www.whoop.com/us/en/thelocker/what-is-a-good-hrv/
https://www.kubios.com/blog/heart-rate-variability-normal-range/
Heart Utilisation is a value that helps measure how hard your heart is working compared to its maximum capacity. This percentage is based on your maximum heart rate (the highest rate your heart can safely beat during intense exercise). At rest, it’s normal for your heart to function at less than 50% of this maximum.
The maximum heart rate naturally declines with age, so your ideal target heart rate range also lowers over time. For moderate-intensity exercise, staying within 50–70% of your maximum heart rate helps improve cardiovascular health without putting too much strain on the heart. For more vigorous activity, a 70–85% range can help build endurance and strength. Monitoring this percentage helps ensure you’re exercising safely and efficiently for your age and fitness level.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/3F921
https://www.forbes.com/health/healthy-aging/normal-heart-rate-by-age/
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/target-heart-rates
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/target-heart-rates
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/235710
The measurement of height includes the distance, in centimetres, from the bottom of the heel to the top of their head while standing or lying down straight.
Height is combined with weight to calculate BMI (Body Mass Index), which indicates body fatness—whether it’s high, low, or within a healthy range. BMI is then used to screen for potential disease risk.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/3F387
https://www.dictionary.com/browse/height
Hypercholesterolemia Risk is the likelihood, in percentage that you are at risk of high cholesterol. The result is based on Your health scan results, and your biometrics (age, gender, weight, and height). High Hypercholesterolemia Risk indicates the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.
Your risk score is based on extensive research comparing people with similar demographics and scan results who were diagnosed with high cholesterol and total cholesterol and high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ratio of over 4.0. Hypercholesterolemia is treatable and can be confirmed with a HDL and Total Cholesterol blood test. A person’s risk level can change slightly with each measurement due to natural body fluctuations, and other factors, during the day. The most accurate risk estimate comes from averaging readings taken on the day, and over several days.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/E9608
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23921-hypercholesterolemia
https://time.com/7009321/high-cholesterol-genetic-familial-hypercholesterolemia-what-to-do/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/symptoms-causes/syc-20350800
https://www.webmd.com/cholesterol-management/high-cholesterol-risk-factors
Hypertension Risk probability is the likelihood, in percentage, that you are at risk of having high blood pressure (hypertension) based on your current health scan results, and your biometrics (age, gender, weight, and height).
A high Hypertension Risk result is consistent with the results for people with a similar risk profile, and who have been clinically diagnosed with high hypertension which is a treatable cardiovascular disease risk factor. A person’s risk level can change slightly with each measurement due to natural body fluctuations, and other factors, during the day. The most accurate risk estimate comes from averaging readings taken on the day, and over several days.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/E4A38
https://www.healthcentral.com/condition/hypertension/when-to-see-a-doctor-for-high-blood-pressure
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/know-your-risk-factors-for-high-blood-pressure/what-are-the-symptoms-of-high-blood-pressure
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/symptoms-causes/syc-20373410
Hypertriglyceridemia Risk
Hypercholesterolemia Risk is the likelihood, in percentage that you are at risk of high cholesterol. The result is based on Your health scan results, and your biometrics (age, gender, weight, and height). High Hypercholesterolemia Risk indicates the likelihood of developing cardiovascular disease.
Too much fat in the blood (triglycerides) can increase the risk of heart and liver problems. A person’s risk level can change slightly with each measurement due to natural body fluctuations, and other factors, during the day. The most accurate risk estimate comes from averaging readings taken on the day, and over several days. A blood test can confirm triglyceride levels.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/8CEF6
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/23942-hypertriglyceridemia
https://www.healthline.com/health/what-causes-high-triglycerides
https://www.verywellhealth.com/what-are-the-causes-of-high-triglycerides-698074
LDL
LDL, or Low-density lipoprotein, is a type of cholesterol that can build up in your arteries. It’s often called ‘bad cholesterol’.
Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) can make the arteries harden and narrow, reducing blood flow. High LDL levels raise the risk of heart attack or stroke. The best levels might vary slightly depending on the country.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/1AD93
https://labtestsonline.org/tests/ldl-cholesterol
https://world-heart-federation.org/what-we-do/cholesterol/
Mean Arterial Pressure
Mean Arterial Pressure (MAP) is the average pressure in your arteries during a single heartbeat and is a key measure of how well blood is flowing to your vital organs. It provides more insight than regular blood pressure readings by factoring in both the force of your heartbeat and the resistance in your blood vessels.
Too low may mean your organs aren’t getting enough blood, while too high can overwork the heart and increase the risk of conditions like heart attack or stroke. MAP is an important indicator of overall cardiovascular health. The most accurate way to measure it is through an intra-arterial line, typically used in hospital settings. Home monitors and automatic cuffs can estimate MAP, but their readings may vary. It is always better to speak to a healthcare professional if you are concerned.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/C3255
https://clinicalview.gehealthcare.com/white-paper/measuring-mean-arterial-pressure-choosing-most-accurate-method
https://emtprep.com/resources/article/map-understanding-mean-arterial-pressure
https://www.healthline.com/health/mean-arterial-pressure
The Mental Stress Index is based on the Heart Rate Variability (HRV) which measures the fluctuations between consecutive heartbeats. This index is an indication of mental stress.
Mental Stress is when something in one’s mind or environment that disrupts the body’s natural balance. This could be from something psychological, physical, or environmental. When stress is experienced, the body’s ‘fight or flight’ response kicks in, causing various changes in the body.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/3AF
https://www.britannica.com/science/homeostasis
The Mental Wellbeing score is mainly based on the Stress Index but also considers other results such as age, biological gender at birth when calculating overall mental health.
The Mental Wellbeing score is closely linked to the stress index. Ideally, one should avoid stressful situations that cause the index to reach alarm levels. It’s common for the stress index to rise during physical activities like playing sports.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/1DD1B
The Patient Health Questionnaire-4 (PHQ-4) score is calculated based on the answers provided to a standard questionnaire consisting of 4 questions.
The PHQ-4 (Patient Health Questionnaire-4) is a screening tool, not a diagnostic tool, that focuses on two aspects of mental health: depression (PHQ-2) and anxiety (GAD-2), using just 4 questions. Its purpose is to see if common symptoms related to these issues are present, which could warrant further evaluation with longer questionnaires like the PHQ-9 or GAD-7, or treatment.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/51303
https://reference.medscape.com/calculator/476/patient-health-questionnaire-4-phq-4
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/how-to-fight-depression
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7604697/
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/tips-and-support/cope-with-depression/
The Patient Health Questionnaire-9 (PHQ-9) score is calculated based on the answers provided to a standard questionnaire consisting of 9 questions.
The PHQ-9 (Patient Health Questionnaire-9) is a screening tool used by doctors to assess depression symptoms, grade their severity, and monitor them over time. High PHQ-9 scores have been linked to decreased function and more problems related to symptoms, like taking more sick leave.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/173E1
https://www.healthline.com/health/depression/how-to-fight-depression
https://www.mdcalc.com/calc/1725/phq9-patient-health-questionnaire9
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7604697/
https://www.nhs.uk/mental-health/self-help/tips-and-support/cope-with-depression/
The Fasting Glucose Risk percentage indicates the probability that you are at risk of prediabetes based on your current health scan results, and demographics (age, gender, weight, height). It is recommended to do the check in the morning after not eating (fasting) for eight to twelve hours.
Prediabetes risk is most accurately achieved by taking a fasting glucose blood test. Alternatively, an over-the-counter glucometer can be used, which varies in accuracy by up to 15%. Your prediabetes risk score is based on extensive research comparing people with similar demographics and scan results who were diagnosed with prediabetes. A person’s risk level can change slightly with each measurement due to natural body fluctuations, and external factors beyond diabetes, during the day. The most accurate risk estimate comes from averaging readings taken on the day, and over several days.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/4D2CA
https://www.cdc.gov/diabetes/prevention-type-2/truth-about-prediabetes.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/prediabetes/diagnosis-treatment/drc-20355284
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/type-2-diabetes/symptoms-causes/syc-20351193
The period of sleep as recorded by a wearable device or fitness app.
Sleep can be tracked either by manually recording it or by using a device if it has that feature. It typically includes the time from when you turn off the lights to when you wake up. Some devices also monitor movement during sleep, which can help people with sleep disorders. Sleep is crucial for physical health and mental well-being. Not getting enough sleep can lead to difficulty focusing, slower reactions, and a higher risk of getting sick.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/1F2E7
https://support.garmin.com/en-ZA/?faq=mBRMf4ks7XAQ03qtsbI8J6
https://www.everydayhealth.com/sleep/101/how-much-sleep-do-you-need.aspx
https://www.livescience.com/49676-new-sleep-recommendations.html
https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/adult-health/expert-answers/how-many-hours-of-sleep-are-enough/faq-20057898
https://www.news-medical.net/health/How-Do-Wearables-Track-Sleep.aspx
https://www.sleepfoundation.org/how-sleep-works/why-do-we-need-sleep
Smoking status indicates whether a person currently smokes, used to smoke (ex-smoker), or doesn’t smoke (non-smoker).
Smoking status indicates whether a person currently smokes, used to smoke (ex-smoker), or doesn’t smoke (non-smoker). Smoking involves using tobacco products and greatly increases the risk of chronic diseases. It can harm all organs in the body.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/552A2
https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/about/?CDC_AAref_Val=https://www.cdc.gov/tobacco/basic_information/health_effects/
SpO₂, or oxygen saturation, is a measure of how much oxygen your red blood cells are carrying compared to their total capacity. It reflects how well oxygen is being delivered throughout the body, which is vital for efficient cell function and energy production. Healthy SpO₂ levels typically range from 95% to 100%, and anything significantly lower can affect how organs and tissues perform.
Monitoring SpO₂ is especially important for individuals with respiratory or heart conditions such as asthma, COPD, or heart disease. It can be tracked using wearable devices or pulse oximeters. Symptoms like shortness of breath or chest pain may signal low oxygen levels, but regular monitoring helps detect issues early—even before symptoms appear. Maintaining proper oxygen saturation supports cardiovascular health, brain function, and overall wellness.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/82287
https://www.healthline.com/health/normal-blood-oxygen-level
https://www.medanta.org/patient-education-blog/blood-oxygen-levels-everything-you-need-to-know/
Step count is the number of steps a person takes as they move around, measured by a fitness app or device over a period of time.
Steps are counted by tracking data from a person’s fitness app or wearable device as they move throughout the day. For better accuracy, the device needs information like the person’s gender, height, and weight. Taking steps can help improve health by increasing physical activity levels, which boosts cardiovascular fitness, strengthens muscles and bones, and supports mental well-being through the release of mood-enhancing endorphins.
https://www.news-medical.net/health/How-do-wearable-fitness-trackers-measure-steps.aspx
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/average-steps-per-day#steps-by-location
The Stress Index (SI) is a number based on your heart rhythm. It is a simple way to see how much stress your body is experiencing. A low Stress Index means your heart is showing healthy variation and you’re likely relaxed. A higher SI means your heart rhythm is more rigid, which often happens when your body is under stress. The lower the number, the better.
Stress is how your body reacts to challenges or pressure, whether it’s physical (like exercise), emotional (like anxiety), or environmental (like noise or danger). One way to measure how stressed your body is involves looking at your heart—specifically, how its rhythm changes from beat to beat, which is called heart rate variability (HRV). When you’re relaxed, your heart beats with more variation. When you’re under stress, your heart tends to beat more steadily and less flexibly.
https://www.digitaltrends.com/mobile/how-does-garmin-measure-stress
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/85650
https://r-forge.r-project.org/forum/attachment.php?attachid=634&group_id=919&forum_id=2951
https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-lifestyle/stress-management/stress-and-heart-health
https://www.cdc.gov/mental-health/living-with/index.html
https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/symptoms/21773-heart-rate-variability-hrv
The Stroke Risk score indicates the chance, given as a percentage, of experiencing a stroke in the next 10 years.
The Stroke Risk score was developed based on insights from the Framingham method and multiple studies that focused on cardiovascular state of health over a period of 10 years. The score considers gender at birth, Body Mass Index, Systolic Blood Pressure, smoking and diabetes status, and antihypertensive medication use.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/93F94
Blood pressure is an important measurement that shows if blood vessel pressure is okay. The first number in your blood pressure reading is called systolic. It indicates how much pressure the blood vessels have when the heart squeezes (contracts/beats).
Low blood pressure and no other symptoms are not serious. High blood pressure (hypertension) might not have noticeable symptoms but can be dangerous. Risk rises with age and can be genetic or caused by weight, inactivity, salt, smoking, or alcohol. Risk factors are split into modifiable (can be changed with lifestyle) and non-modifiable (can’t be changed, like genetics).
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/61040
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/high-blood-pressure/the-facts-about-high-blood-pressure
https://www.heartfoundation.co.za/blood-pressure/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-pressure/in-depth/blood-pressure/art-20050982
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/low-blood-pressure/symptoms-causes/syc-20355465
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/hypertension
Total cholesterol is the total amount of different types of cholesterol in your blood. These include HDL (the ‘good’ cholesterol), LDL (the ‘bad’ cholesterol), and triglycerides.
Cholesterol results are from a blood test after fasting overnight. Total Cholesterol includes three types of fats found in the blood. The result helps assess the likelihood of blood vessel or heart disease, including the risk of heart attack or stroke.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/C6501
https://labtestsonline.org/tests/ldl-cholesterol
https://world-heart-federation.org/what-we-do/cholesterol/
https://www.discovery.co.za/assets/discoverycoza/corporate/wellness-assessment-guide.pdf
https://www.health24.com/Test/Understand-the-cholesterol-numbers-20120721
http://www.heartfoundation.co.za/cholesterol/
https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/triglycerides/art-20048186
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/cholesterol-test/about/pac-20384601
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6378490/
Triglycerides are a type of fat in our bodies that store extra energy from the food we eat. They’re also an important part of healthy cholesterol levels.
Triglycerides are the main type of body fat that stores energy from our diet. When there are low levels of HDL (good cholesterol) and high levels of LDL (bad cholesterol) along with high triglycerides, the risk of cardiovascular disease increases. The ideal levels may vary slightly from country to country.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/58846
https://world-heart-federation.org/what-we-do/cholesterol/
https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/triglycerides/
Vascular Capacity measures how flexible your blood vessels are, which can indicate how healthy the heart and blood vessels are when measured while resting.
When blood vessels are less elastic, it suggests poor cardiovascular health. Certain activities like smoking or drinking alcohol can immediately affect Vascular Capacity. Better cardiovascular health is linked to higher elasticity in blood vessels.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/3BDFE
https://www.heart.org/en/news/2018/09/21/loss-of-elasticity-in-blood-vessels-may-help-identify-higher-dementia-risk
VO2Max measures how much oxygen your body can use during exercise, showing how fit you are. Wearable devices can measure it for you.
VO2Max is a measure of how much oxygen your body can turn into energy (ATP). This energy is used for activities like breathing out carbon dioxide. Having a higher VO2Max means your body can generate more energy from oxygen, which is important for improving cardio fitness.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/BD05C
https://tanita.eu/blog/could-improving-your-vo2-max-be-the-secret-of-success
https://www.firstbeat.com/en/blog/whats-a-good-vo2max-for-me-fitness-age-men-and-women/
https://www.garmin.com/en-US/blog/fitness/whats-a-good-vo2-max-for-me/
https://www.healthline.com/health/vo2-max
https://www.verywellfit.com/vo2-max-norms-for-women-3120275
Measurement of the circumference of your waist, just above your belly button, in centimetres. This measurement gives us insight into the amount of fat stored around your middle, including the fat that surrounds your organs.
The fat around a person’s waist is the same type that surrounds organs. A larger waist suggests excess organ fat, raising the risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and heart disease due to high blood fat levels. Waist circumference is a better measure than BMI for people with more muscle and less fat, like bodybuilders.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/BC180
https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports-data/behaviours-risk-factors/risk-factors/overview
https://www.bhf.org.uk/informationsupport/heart-matters-magazine/medical/measuring-your-waist
Waist-to-height ratio represents the individual’s computed waist circumference (using age, biological gender at birth, height, weight), expressed as a percentage of their height.
The Waist-to-Height ratio is considered good if the waist measurement is less than half the height. A higher ratio suggests a greater risk of diseases related to obesity, like heart conditions or diabetes.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/720C7
https://www.topendsports.com/testing/tests/waist-to-height-ratio.htm
Weight refers to how much the body weighs, in kilograms, measured by a scale and is generally taken in a standing position.
Weight and height are typically used together to calculate BMI (Body Mass Index). BMI gives an idea of body fatness, whether it’s high, low, or within a healthy range. It’s a tool used to estimate the potential risk of disease.
https://alula.healthcloudsa.com/mediaRequest/B2BA5
https://www.cdc.gov/healthyweight/assessing/index.html