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The Importance Of Annual Physicals

Posted in: Blogs , English

The most important reason to have an annual physical is to catch health problems before they worsen and prevent future illness. Your physician will check your heart and blood pressure to see if you are at risk for cardiovascular problems or heart disease. Perhaps it is time for you to receive a vaccination, or maybe you are due for a mammogram or prostate exam. Catching serious conditions in their early stages can make treatment more effective. St. Joseph Health Primary Care Physician Anne L. Moser, M.D. shares that “the earlier you engage in preventive measures, the sooner your overall health can benefit.” Your healthcare provider will give you the tools you need to take care of yourself.

An annual physical is the perfect time to share any changes you have noticed in your overall health. Have you noticed any bodily changes? Have you been experiencing any emotional problems? Have you been concerned about certain symptoms? Now is the time to let your doctor know. Your healthcare provider can recommend changes to improve your health or prescribe medications to control symptoms.

Important Health Exams

Your doctor can help determine which health exams are needed based on your current conditions, family history, and age.

Important exams for men include:

  • Blood pressure screening
  • Cholesterol screening
  • Diabetes screening
  • Colon cancer screening
  • Osteoporosis screening
  • Prostate cancer screening
  • Lung cancer screening
  • Infectious disease screening
  • Testicular exam

Important exams for women include:

  • Blood pressure screening
  • Cholesterol screening
  • Diabetes screening
  • Colon cancer screening
  • Osteoporosis screening
  • Lung cancer screening
  • Breast exam
  • Mammogram
  • Pelvic exam
  • Pap smear
  • Skin exam

Take care of your health and future by scheduling an annual wellness exam with St. Joseph Health Family Medicine. Our board-certified physicians located throughout the Brazos Valley have convenient office hours and quick appointment scheduling.

 

Sources:

CDC - Checkup

CDC - Checkup Checklist

NIH - Exams for Men Ages 40 to 64

NIH - Exams for Women Ages 40 to 64

NIH - Exams for Men Ages 18 to 39

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