Comedian Choi Yang-rak shocked by 7.4% glycated hemoglobin level

Broadcaster Choi Yang-rak could not hide his bewilderment after receiving unexpectedly serious health checkup results. In particular, his glycated hemoglobin levels have risen significantly compared to three years ago, prompting him to realize the urgent need for lifestyle management.

On the 19th, the 9th episode of "Real Yang-rak," titled "His health status is more serious than expected," was released on the YouTube channel "Yangrak 1st Street." In the video, Choi visited an oriental medicine clinic to undergo tests for his autonomic nervous system and glycated hemoglobin levels.

The most shocking result involved his blood sugar indicators. Choi's glycated hemoglobin level was measured at 7.4%, a substantial increase from the 6.4% recorded three years ago. Regarding this figure, the attending physician explained, "If you undergo accurate testing at a hospital, there is a very high possibility of being diagnosed with diabetes."

Glycated hemoglobin is an indicator that reflects average blood sugar levels over the recent 2 to 3 months and is used to diagnose diabetes and evaluate blood sugar management. Generally, as levels rise beyond the normal range, the likelihood of long-term exposure to high blood sugar increases. However, a diagnosis cannot be confirmed solely by the tests conducted in the video; additional blood tests and a specialist's judgment at a medical institution are required for an accurate diagnosis.

Concerning results were also noted regarding his autonomic nervous system. Based on heart rate variability graphs, the physician explained findings related to psychosomatic disorders, prompting Choi to confess that he had experienced depression in the past. He was also informed that his liver and kidney functions are not in good condition.

The physician advised that while immediate hospitalization is not required, active management through lifestyle changes is necessary. Specifically, as he has entered his 60s, he was urged to reduce alcohol consumption and focus on comprehensive health management.

Choi expressed his distress over the unexpected results. "I came here thinking I was healthy without much worry, but I was startled after the consultation," he said. "I heard that 6.4 to 6.5 is the cutoff, so I tried to pay attention in my own way, but it was shocking to hear it rose to 7.4%."

He added, "I was aware that I had symptoms of depression when I was younger. I thought my organs were healthy too, but my heart is heavy because my liver and kidney functions are not good."

Choi debuted in the entertainment industry after winning the Grand Prize at the 1st MBC Comedian Contest in 1981. Since then, he has established himself as a representative of Korean comedy with his unique speech patterns and characteristic dry humor. Even after marrying broadcaster Paeng Hyeon-suk in 1988, he has maintained a steady career spanning over 40 years.

The broadcast has drawn attention as it provides an opportunity for Choi, who has brought laughter to the public for decades, to objectively reflect on his health in his mid-60s. The rise in his glycated hemoglobin levels serves as a reminder that as people age, it becomes essential to monitor lifestyle factors such as weight, diet, alcohol consumption, and exercise.