Regular checkups are required to keep the body strong and healthy. If you want to prevent illnesses, you should know when to get regular checkups. Here are the five most commonly forgotten checkups that it’s time to schedule.
1. Schedule a Dental Cleaning
A regular dental cleaning is necessary, and experts such as Able Dental Group can help. Every six months appointments are recommended by most dentists to remove plaque buildup and prevent cavities from spreading out of control. Prevention is the key to good dental care. X-rays taken annually during these visits will reveal the movement of the teeth. Braces or corrective measures can be avoided if the problem occurs.
2. Schedule a Breast Exam
In the past, women were required to have a pap smear every year. Recent studies have proven that this is not necessary unless there’s an abnormal test, but most physicians recommend a Pap smear and a breast exam annually. Women who are between the ages of 21 and 29 should have a Pap smear every three years.
Women who are between the ages of 30 and 64, you should get a Pap test and a human papillomavirus (HPV) test every five years or the Pap test every three years. Women who are 65 and over and have had three normal Pap smears consecutively do not need a Pap smear regularly any more. Women who do not have a cervix, have not been diagnosed with cervical cancer, or have had a hysterectomy do not need a Pap test annually.
3. Schedule a Prostate Exam
You should schedule a prostate cancer exam annually after the age of 40. Before 40, you should have a prostate exam every two to three years. This is the most common form of cancer in men. One in six is are at risk for developing prostate cancer. Keep in mind that African American men are more likely to develop prostate cancer than white Americans.
4. Get an Annual Physical
How often you get an annual physical will depend on your age and health status. Your ability to pay for a physical may also affect how often you’ll need a physical. Most insurance plans will pay for having a test every few years.
5. Get a Colorectal Cancer Screening
A colorectal screening should be conducted regularly after 50 to check for abnormal or pre-cancerous growths in the colon or in the abdominal area. A colonoscopy may be conducted or a fecal occult blood test may be required.
Don’t forget these tests. Prevention can go a long way in helping people save money and avoid illnesses. Contact your physician today.
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