The Essential Annual Checkups for Preventative Care

Preventative care plays a crucial role in maintaining good health and well-being. Regular checkups can catch potential health issues early, when they are often easier and less costly to treat, as well as in find issues while they are still treatable. Here is a comprehensive guide to the types of annual checkups you should consider integrating into your healthcare routine.

1. General Physical Examination

A general physical examination is the cornerstone of preventative care. It typically includes a review of your medical history, vital signs check (blood pressure, heart rate, respiration rate, and temperature), visual exam of your body, physical examination of your organs, and other tests as needed based on your age, sex, and health history. A doctor may order full blood panel work including white and red blood cell count.

2. Blood Pressure Screening

High blood pressure (hypertension) is a silent killer that can lead to serious health problems such as heart disease and stroke. Adults should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year. If you have a history of blood pressure issues or risk factors for cardiovascular disease, more frequent monitoring might be necessary.

3. Cholesterol Check

High cholesterol levels can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. Adults aged 20 and older should consider getting their cholesterol levels checked every 4 to 6 years. Those with cardiovascular disease, diabetes, or a family history of high cholesterol may need more frequent screenings. Ask your physician about ordering a full lipid panel. A full lipid panel typically includes tests for total cholesterol, high-density lipoprotein (HDL), low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and triglycerides, providing a comprehensive overview of a person's lipid levels.

4. Diabetes Screening

Adults are encouraged to test their A1C levels early, to ensure they are not pre-diabetic. Diabetes screening is recommended for adults who have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 (or 23 for Asian Americans) and have one or more additional risk factors for diabetes (like high blood pressure or a family history of diabetes). Testing should begin at age 45 for everyone else, with re-testing every 3 years if results are normal.

5. Cancer Screenings

• Breast Cancer: Women aged 50 to 74 should have a mammogram every two years. Guidelines recommend starting at age 40, and even earlier for those at higher risk.
• Cervical Cancer: Women aged 21 to 65 should have a Pap test every three years. Women aged 30 to 65 may opt for a Pap test combined with an HPV test every five years.
• Colorectal Cancer: Adults aged 45 to 75 should be screened for colorectal cancer. The frequency depends on the type of test used: every year for fecal occult blood tests, every 3 years for stool DNA tests, every 5 years for CT colonography and flexible sigmoidoscopy, or every 10 years for a colonoscopy.
• Prostate Cancer: Men should discuss prostate cancer screening with their doctor, especially those aged 55 to 69. The decision to screen involves weighing the benefits and risks.

6. Bone Density Scan

Osteoporosis screenings are recommended for women aged 65 and older and men aged 70 and older. Younger individuals with risk factors for osteoporosis (such as long-term steroid use or a family history of the condition) should also consider getting screened.

7. Immunizations

Stay up-to-date with your vaccinations. Adults should get a flu vaccine annually, a tetanus booster every 10 years, and other vaccinations as recommended based on age, health conditions, job, lifestyle, and travel habits.

8. Vision and Hearing Tests

Regular vision and hearing tests are important, especially as you age. Adults should have their vision checked every one to two years and hearing tested periodically.

Other tests based on family history

Regular checkups are essential for identifying potential health issues early and maintaining overall health. While this guide covers the basics, remember that your specific healthcare needs may vary based on your age, sex, lifestyle, and family history. For example, if you are Asian, you may want to have your Vitamin D checked periodically, as it is common to be deficient based on your descent. Consult with your healthcare provider to tailor a preventative care plan that's right for you. Prioritizing these annual checkups can significantly contribute to a longer, healthier life. To help stay on top of your health, consider trying this health screening mobile app.