10 Medical Checkups To Remember

Most adults are familiar with the annual physical exam, but there are actually several other checkups and screenings that should be done on a yearly basis. Keeping up with these tests can help to detect any potential health issues before they become too serious.

Here Is A List Of 10 Annual Checkups That Should Not Be Missed:

1. Blood Pressure Check

High blood pressure is called the “silent killer” because it often has no symptoms until it reaches dangerous levels. Even if you feel fine, having your blood pressure checked at least once a year is important for monitoring any changes in your condition.

2. Cholesterol Test

Too much cholesterol in the blood can lead to heart attack or stroke, so regular cholesterol screening is essential. The average adult should get their cholesterol levels checked at least once a year, and more often if they have an existing heart condition or other risk factors such as diabetes, obesity, smoking, or family history.

3. Skin Cancer Screening

Skin cancer is one of the most common types of cancer in the United States, and early detection can save lives. Make sure to check with your doctor about any changes in moles or other skin irregularities that could be signs of skin cancer.

4. Eye Exam

Regular eye exams are important for detecting vision problems and eye diseases, particularly if you are over 40 years old. Most optometrists recommend having your eyes checked at least every two years for adults.

5. Dental Exam

A yearly dental checkup is essential for maintaining healthy teeth and gums, as well as detecting any potential problems early on. Make an appointment at your nearest dentists office; be sure to get your teeth cleaned at least once a year, and ask your dentist about regular x-rays to help monitor for changes in the health of your teeth and gums.

6. Mammogram

Women should make sure to have regular mammograms starting at age 45 or earlier if they have a family history of breast cancer. These tests can help detect any signs of breast cancer before it becomes too serious, so make sure to get them done regularly.

7. Colon Cancer Screening

Men and women over 50 should be screened for colon cancer regularly, and those with a family history should start getting tested even sooner. The good news is that colon cancer can be prevented if caught early enough, so make sure to get this important checkup every year.

8. Prostate Exam

Men over the age of 50 should have regular prostate exams to help detect any potential issues in the prostate gland. This exam typically involves having a digital rectal exam (DRE) as well as a blood test to check for elevated PSA levels.

9. Pap Smear

Women should have a pap smear every year starting at age 21 or earlier if they are sexually active. A pap smear can help detect any changes in cells in the cervix that could indicate cervical cancer.

10. Diabetes Test

People with risk factors such as obesity, a family history of diabetes, or high blood pressure should get tested for diabetes yearly. A simple blood test can help detect any potential issues before they become too serious.

Finally,

These 10 annual checkups are essential for maintaining good health and catching any potential problems early on. Make sure to talk to your doctor about scheduling regular tests so you can stay on top of your health!