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Published on: Nov 10, 2021
2 minute read
By: Second Medic Expert

Understanding Hemogram

A hemogram can tell you a lot about your blood. For instance, red and white blood cells, as well as platelets (also called thrombocytes), will be counted and examined for size, shape, volume, and degree of organization. Specific factors that may affect these parameters include a total number of erythrocyte progenitor stem cells; RBC membrane stiffness; frequency of RBC production; distribution and frequency of phagocytosis (cellular breakdown); distribution and type of leukocytes (white blood cells) in circulation; vitamin deficiencies like folic acid or B12 deficiency. The number of toxic substances such as lead poisoning can also be analyzed from a hemogram.

Your hemoglobin levels should be high and your white cell count should be low. It's very important to have a blood test done when you're pregnant to make sure that you don't have any type of disease that the blood could transmit to the baby through the placenta, such as hepatitis B or C, HIV/AIDS, syphilis, or other diseases.

It's also important when giving birth if one is Rh-negative and hasn't been vaccinated against it (if they can't remember their past). If they were exposed in pregnancy and gave birth with an Rh-positive partner, there's a chance for their newborn baby to receive too many RBCs from mom and develop jaundice/anemia;

A hemogram is a blood test that measures the hematocrit, hemoglobin levels, and other substances in the blood (such as total protein and red blood cells). Hemograms can be differential or comprehensive. Comprehensive: performs a complete analysis of all forms of an organism's entire circulating cellular mass. Differential: analyzes two sources from one specimen- for example, plasma and white cells, platelets and red cells, prothrombin time combined with partial thromboplastin time (PTT), D-dimer level with complete lipid profile to provide a clear diagnosis of possible metabolic liver problems.

A blood count measures the number of each type of cell found in one cubic millimeter (1/10th of a teaspoon) or 500 microliters (a little less than half a cup) of whole blood. The numbers are reported as cells per cubic millimeter, so you need to know how many millions there are to divide by 10 to get the actual headcount. In this way, for example, someone under 20 could have 1.0x1012 neutrophils and have a CBC that says they have 10x109 neutrophils per cubic millimeter."

The blood count may reveal, for example, an abnormally high number of red blood cells (confirmatory diagnosis) or determinations made by routine inspection that are not obvious without the additional information present in the hemogram. A hemogram is typically conducted to investigate an abnormal indication on a CBC. For instance, if you have very low white counts and no cause for this can be determined using other lab tests like a peripheral smear or bone marrow biopsy, it's possible that your doctor will perform a complete hemogram. Most often abnormalities are seen on the CBC.

When you're involved in extreme sports like skateboarding, your chances of getting injured are much greater than if you're at the pool or sipping tea. Hematoma is a condition that usually arises from some form of blunt force or direct trauma-related injury to the muscles and/or bones due to the high blood vessels around those areas. This injury can cause swelling which creates pressure on these vessels causing red blood cells to either leak into the soft tissue, tissues fluids, or even lead to a blocked flow of fresh oxygenated blood through these vessels if not treated promptly with an incision.

A hematocrit test analyzes the volume of red blood cells in one cubic millimeter of blood. Red blood cells contain hemoglobin, which carries oxygen and carbon dioxide to and from tissues and organs. The more severely an individual is afflicted with anemia, the lower the percentage of red blood cells they would have in one cubic millimeter of their own cardiac tissue.

If you endure a deep cut on your arm, your body will release stress hormones such as cortisol or epinephrine that prepare your immune system for increased levels of intense activity. These types of stress hormones also trigger a large release of iron from storage sites on red blood cells so that enough iron is available to help form new erythrocytes.

A haemogram is a study of the cellular inclusions in one's blood based on their shape, color, size, and specific gene expression. This process involves pumping a person's blood through a machine (this machine includes some spinning disks that separate out each type of cell for study). However, this test is not commonly done. Instead, analysis is usually limited to basic counts of red and white blood cells as well as platelets.

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Health Risks of Sedentary Lifestyle: Why Sitting Too Much Can Harm Your Health

Modern lifestyles have become increasingly sedentary. With the rise of desk jobs, digital devices and long working hours, many individuals spend a significant portion of their day sitting. While technology and convenience have improved productivity, they have also contributed to reduced physical activity.

Understanding the health risks of a sedentary lifestyle is essential for preventing chronic diseases and maintaining overall wellbeing.

What Is a Sedentary Lifestyle?

A sedentary lifestyle refers to a pattern of behavior characterized by prolonged sitting or inactivity with minimal physical movement.

Common examples include:

Sitting at a desk for long hours
Watching television for extended periods
Spending significant time on computers or smartphones
Limited engagement in physical exercise

When the body remains inactive for long durations, various physiological functions may become impaired.

1. Increased Risk of Obesity

Physical inactivity reduces calorie expenditure.

When calorie intake exceeds the energy burned through activity, excess calories are stored as body fat.

This can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of obesity.

Obesity is a major risk factor for several chronic health conditions.

2. Higher Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Prolonged sitting has been associated with increased risk of heart disease.

Sedentary behavior may contribute to:

Elevated blood pressure
Increased cholesterol levels
Reduced blood circulation

These factors increase the likelihood of cardiovascular complications over time.

3. Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar levels.

A sedentary lifestyle may impair the body’s ability to use insulin effectively, leading to insulin resistance.

Over time, this can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

4. Poor Metabolic Health

Metabolism refers to the body’s ability to convert food into energy.

Long periods of inactivity may slow metabolic processes and reduce the body’s efficiency in managing glucose and fat levels.

This can contribute to metabolic syndrome.

5. Musculoskeletal Problems

Sitting for extended periods can strain muscles and joints.

Common issues include:

Lower back pain
Neck stiffness
Shoulder discomfort
Poor posture

These problems are particularly common among office workers.

6. Reduced Mental Wellbeing

Physical activity plays a significant role in supporting mental health.

Sedentary behavior may contribute to:

Increased stress levels
Reduced mood
Lower energy levels

Regular movement helps improve mental wellbeing.

7. Increased Risk of Premature Mortality

Studies have shown that prolonged inactivity may increase the risk of early death due to chronic diseases.

Maintaining an active lifestyle significantly improves long-term health outcomes.

Sedentary Lifestyle in the Indian Context

Urbanization and technological advancements have led to more sedentary work environments in India.

Long commuting hours, desk-based professions and digital entertainment have reduced physical activity levels for many individuals.

As a result, lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and heart disease have increased significantly in recent years.

Public health initiatives now emphasize the importance of regular physical activity to counter these trends.

How to Reduce Sedentary Behavior

Take Frequent Movement Breaks

Stand up and stretch every 30–60 minutes during work.

Incorporate Walking into Daily Routine

Short walks during breaks can improve circulation and energy levels.

Use Active Workstations

Standing desks or adjustable workstations encourage movement.

Exercise Regularly

Engage in moderate physical activity such as walking, cycling or yoga.

Health guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of exercise per week.

Limit Screen Time

Reducing recreational screen time encourages more active habits.

Benefits of an Active Lifestyle

Increasing daily physical activity provides several health benefits:

Improved cardiovascular health
Better weight management
Enhanced mental wellbeing
Stronger muscles and bones
Improved metabolic function

Even small lifestyle changes can make a significant difference over time.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

Persistent back pain
Unexplained weight gain
Chronic fatigue
Signs of metabolic disorders

Early intervention can help manage health risks effectively.

Conclusion

A sedentary lifestyle may significantly impact physical and mental health. Prolonged sitting and lack of movement increase the risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and musculoskeletal problems.

Adopting an active lifestyle that includes regular movement, exercise and healthy habits is essential for maintaining overall wellbeing.

Simple changes such as standing frequently, walking regularly and engaging in physical activity can greatly reduce the health risks associated with sedentary behavior.

Maintaining an active lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to support long-term health and prevent chronic disease.

References

World Health Organization – Physical Activity Guidelines
Indian Council of Medical Research – Lifestyle Disease Reports
National Family Health Survey – Health and Lifestyle Data
Lancet Global Health – Sedentary Behavior Research
Journal of Preventive Medicine – Physical Activity Studies

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