Don’t Skip Out On Checking In

IMPORTANT TIPS
Even when you feel fine, you may have health problems. Certain conditions, such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes, can cause few noticeable symptoms.

• Blood pressure readings should be taken at least once every two years starting from age 20.
• Cholesterol levels should be checked every four to six years starting at age 20.
• Diabetes testing should occur consistently if you have a risk factor such as family history of the disease, being overweight, having hear disease, or having high blood pressure or cholesterol.

Reluctance to schedule routine checkups can prevent early intervention for a number of conditions that become more challenging to treat as they progress.

Establishing a relationship with a primary care physician sooner rather than later can allow for simpler, less invasive and more effective treatments. Many diseases, such as cancer and heart disease, can be treated much more easily if detected early. Left unchecked, they can be devastating.
Even chronic disorders, such as diabetes, can be better controlled if detected sooner. Having extra time to implement lifestyle changes supports disease management, because special diets, therapies and exercise regimens take time to affect your health.