Basic HTML Version
preventive care
Y
ou want to keep tabs on
your health, even when
you feel good. is can
help you stay well in the long run.
at’s why you need regular
screening tests and checkups
with your doctor.
ese visits can help nd any
problems early. at often means
that treatment can work better.
Seeing your doctor can also help
keep a problem from developing
in the rst place.
Before your checkup, nd
out your family health history.
Your doctor will need to know if
your close family members had
health problems such as:
Heart
trouble.
Stroke.
Diabetes.
Cancer.
Also, tell your doctor about any
changes in your own health. at
includes:
New lumps.
Skin
changes.
Pain.
Feeling dizzy.
Trouble sleeping.
Changes
Check up on your health
in eating habits.
Changes in
bathroom habits.
Your doctor can then tell you
what screenings to have and when
to have them.
What tests do I need?
You might need tests for :
Cholesterol.
High cholesterol
can put you at high risk for heart
disease. is blood test
is for :
Most men
starting at age 35.
Most women
starting at age 45.
Blood pressure.
Have this checked
at least once every two years. High
blood pressure can raise your risk
of heart and kidney disease and
stroke.
Diabetes.
If you have high blood
pressure or high cholesterol, you
should get tested for diabetes.
Colorectal cancer.
Most adults
should have their rst exam at
age 50. ere are di erent kinds
of tests you can have. Ask your
provider which one is right for
you.
Women might also need tests
for :
Breast cancer.
Your provider
may suggest that you get a
mammogram every one or two
years starting at age 40.
Cervical cancer.
Pap smears are
often done every one to three years
after rst having sex or when you
turn 21.
Osteoporosis.
A bone density
scan should be done once every
2 years for women 65 years and
older and men 70 years and
older.
Your doctor can tell you more
about which screenings are right
for you.
Source: Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality
5
family
health