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How do we know whether we're healthy?

A stethoscopes and blood pressure monitor on set on a rolling rolling table. (Rogelio V. Solis/AP)
A stethoscopes and blood pressure monitor on set on a rolling rolling table. (Rogelio V. Solis/AP)

Science writer Helen Thomson recently wondered whether traditional health metrics — body mass index, blood pressure and cholesterol — provide a full picture. Her article in the British online journal New Scientist looks at the latest health tests that could become routine for check-ups in the future, including those examining the biome, the immune system, chronological versus body age, and metabolism.

Thomson joins host Robin Young to talk about her findings.

This article was originally published on WBUR.org.

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