If you value your health, don’t put off yearly check-ups

Making time for annual check-ups with your doctor is extremely important, regardless of how healthy you may feel. This routine allows you to establish a trusting relationship with your doctor, making it easier to openly discuss any health concerns you may have. Additionally, by sharing your healthcare preferences upfront, you can make informed decisions about potential future illnesses. It’s worth noting that yearly check-ups aren’t only for seniors – individuals of all ages can benefit from overall wellness and health evaluations. Prioritize your health by scheduling your yearly physical today.

Review of overall health

Just like a vehicle needs regular maintenance to perform well, your body also requires care to stay healthy. Your annual physical is a chance to discuss any health issues or concerns with your doctor. Even if you feel fine, it’s important to screen for tobacco or alcohol use, depression, and high-risk sexual activity. In addition, by prioritizing your annual check-up, you can address weight loss goals, allergies, trouble sleeping, or any other concerns. Remember, preventative care is crucial for overall health and wellness.

Review of your vital signs 

It’s always a good idea to take a peek under the hood or check a car’s tires to see how well it’s running. The same goes for your body. Reviewing vital signs like your temperature, blood pressure, heart rate, and respiration rate can give you a good idea of your overall health. When you visit your doctor, they will also do a physical exam by looking at your eyes, ears, and throat, and checking your abdomen and back for any unusual findings or masses. 

Review screenings for cancer

It’s important to remember that cancer is the second leading cause of death in the U.S. That’s why early detection is crucial for improving survival rates, and regular cancer screenings are necessary. When you get your yearly checkup, it’s a great opportunity to discuss which cancer screenings are recommended based on your age, gender, and family history. Below are some of the most common cancer screenings for men to consider:

• Prostate cancer

Men should begin yearly screenings for prostate cancer with a baseline screening at age 40.

• Colon cancer

Colon cancer screening is now recommended starting at age 45, but those with a family history may need screening sooner.

• Skin cancer

It is highly recommended to have an annual full-body skin check to identify any suspicious changes that could indicate basal or squamous cell cancer or malignant melanoma. The earlier they are found and treated, the greater chance of a successful outcome. 

Review vaccination updates

Children are not the only ones to get vaccines. Adults also need booster shots for certain immunizations, such as tetanus, every 10 years. Depending on your age, health history, and lifestyle, vaccinations protecting against illnesses to review include influenza, pneumonia, shingles, hepatitis A and B, and whooping cough. 

Review of prescribed medications

Review your current medications or supplements with your doctor, both prescribed and over-the-counter, is advisable. Studies have shown that doctors who review medications patients are taking can find discrepancies, suggest alternative medicines to lower pharmacy costs, and possibly reduce or eliminate certain drugs prescribed if found not to be of use.

Review of steps to reduce risk of disease

Meeting yearly with your doctor is an excellent time to receive information on cultivating better health habits. For example, doctors can help motivate to stop smoking, lose excess weight, or better management of diseases such as high blood pressure and diabetes.

Review of new prevention and treatment recommendations

If you have a chronic illness such as diabetes or heart disease, you should inquire with your doctor about the latest treatments available. Your doctor can inform you about new medications, monitoring devices, and therapies that may be suit you. This information can be crucial in managing your condition effectively.

Dr. David Samadi is the Director of Men’s Health and Urologic Oncology at St. Francis Hospital in Long Island. He’s a renowned and highly successful board certified Urologic Oncologist Expert and Robotic Surgeon in New York City, regarded as one of the leading prostate surgeons in the U.S., with a vast expertise in prostate cancer treatment and Robotic-Assisted Laparoscopic Prostatectomy.  Dr. Samadi is a medical contributor to NewsMax TV and is also the author of The Ultimate MANual, Dr. Samadi’s Guide to Men’s Health and Wellness, available online both on Amazon and Barnes & Noble. Visit Dr. Samadi’s websites at robotic oncology and prostate cancer 911.