Stay Ahead of Your Health: Essential Screenings That Could Save Your Life

You’re on top of your health and are always looking for ways to enhance it. From keeping informed on the latest health trends and staying fit through following a nutritious diet and exercising regularly, you consider it one of life’s greatest joys to reap the results of a life well-lived. Even though you rarely get sick, you’re the first to make an appointment with your primary care provider when you do.

We know we’re preaching to the choir, but we’re here for responsible, wellness-minded patients like you with everything you need to stay ahead of your health. Keep reading for valuable information on essential screenings that could save your life and when to get them.

Essential Screenings That Could Save Your Life

Making healthy choices like you do is a great way to prevent health issues from happening. “Choice” is the first principle in our CREATION Life wellness philosophy for that very reason — our choices inform the rest of what we’ll do with each principle (Choice, Rest, Environment, Activity, Trust, Interpersonal, Outlook and Nutrition), and every choice we make deeply influences our health outcomes.

You’re choosing wisely to get your lifesaving health screenings and critical health checkups each year. Even those of us who feel healthy and on top of our game still benefit from early detection tests. Then, if there is a health issue, you’ll be able to start your care plan sooner when illnesses are more treatable. And if there are no health issues, you can carry on living your best life as always.

Here’s a simple breakdown of health screenings that matter most by age group and gender.

Women’s Health Screenings (30 to 50 Years)

Women in this age group have an increased risk of developing certain cancers. That’s why more women’s health screenings exist for this age group.

You need these health screenings during these middle years:

• Annual physical
• Bone density scans
• Colorectal cancer screenings
• Mammograms
• Ovarian and uterine cancer screenings

Depending on your risk factors, you may need more extensive testing after each of these women’s health screenings.

Men’s Health Screenings (30 to 50 Years)

Men in their middle years of life need more in-depth health screenings than before. These tests will help detect serious men’s health issues early.

These health screenings for men typically start during the middle years:

• Annual physical
• Cardiovascular risk assessments (including blood pressure and cholesterol)
• Colorectal cancer screenings
• Continued discussions about prostate cancer
• Prostate exams and cancer screenings

Health Screenings in Later Adulthood (Ages 50+)

• Regular Monitoring and Comprehensive Assessments: As with any other phase of life, you’ll need regular physicals and checkups after age 50. We continue to check your blood sugar, cholesterol levels, blood pressure and other health markers. Eye exams, dental assessments and annual physicals are also important at this age.
• Ongoing Women’s Health Screenings: Postmenopausal women need continued bone density scans to check for signs of osteoporosis. Gynecologic cancer screenings should also remain on your list. You may need more frequent mammograms and colorectal cancer screenings as you get older. If you’re a smoker, ask your doctor about lung cancer screenings after you turn 50.
• Ongoing Men’s Health Screenings: Continue to get regular prostate exams and cancer screenings, particularly if you’re high-risk. You’ll also need ongoing and more frequent colorectal cancer screenings. Add lung cancer screenings to this list if you’re a smoker.

You may need osteoporosis screenings if you’re at risk of developing bone density problems. Although it’s less common in men than women, it’s still possible.

Personalized Health Screening Plans With Your Primary Care Provider

While we offer a general schedule for the recommended health screenings by age and gender, you should still consult your primary care provider. They know your risk factors and personal health history, so they can best tailor your screening schedules to your health. It’s always important to maintain open communication with your health care provider, and it’s important that your health care plan reflects who you are and your unique needs.

Partner With Us for All Your Preventive Health Care Needs

Preventive health screenings give you the power to take charge of your health, and we’re proud of all your efforts. Your annual health checkup is the best time to talk about preventive care and the screenings and vaccines you need for the year. We strive to make it easy for you to stay on top of your health.

Learn more about our primary care services. You deserve to feel whole for life.