Why are checkups so important?
Getting the right screenings at the right time is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Regular checkups and screenings tailored to age, gender, personal and family history and lifestyle can lead to early detection and quick treatment of many ‘silent’ disorders lacking obvious symptoms. These include high blood pressure, heart and vascular disease, diabetes, cancer and orthopedic issues. Test results can warn of problems, such as elevated cholesterol levels, precancerous polyps or any silent prostate problems, allowing you and your physician to map out a plan to lower the risk of serious disease while concerns are identified in their most treatable stages.
Some of the common medical conditions men face as they age can be controlled or cured if caught early. Don’t dodge the doctor when faced with serious symptoms such as shortness of breath and chest pain. The chance of developing diseases such as diabetes, which partly results from an unhealthy lifestyle that is aggravated by stress, can be greatly reduced by adopting healthier habits.
Where should I start?
Take responsibility for your health. Get regular checkups, and any preventive screenings, tests and immunizations recommended by your physician. Eat a variety of fruits, vegetables and whole grains; limit foods and drinks high in calories, sugar, salt, fat and alcohol; and eat a balanced diet to help maintain a healthy weight. Include activities that raise your heart rate and strengthen your muscles. If you haven’t been exercising regularly and are over 50, consult your physician before starting any type of vigorous exercise program. Protect yourself by regularly wearing helmets when cycling, seat belts when driving, and sunscreen when outdoors.
Make prevention part of your business. Collaborate with physicians and hospitals to offer preventive techniques, health programs and screenings at your job site or at a convenient location. Long Beach Memorial’s business outreach programs can provide assistance through executive physicals and onsite seminars. Our Web site (memorialcare.org) offers free online tools, guides and referrals to physicians that can help you and your work force reach the goal of a healthier life.
Jim Leo, M.D., is the associate medical director at Long Beach Memorial Medical Center. The not-for-profit MemorialCare Health System includes Long Beach Memorial Medical Center, Miller Children’s Hospital Long Beach, Orange Coast Memorial Medical Center in Fountain Valley and Saddleback Memorial Medical Center in Laguna Hills and San Clemente. For additional information on excellence in health care, please visit memorialcare.org.
