How do we know whether we're healthy?

Editor's note: This segment was rebroadcasted on Aug. 12, 2024. Find that audio here. 

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 popular science magazine 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.