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At 35, it’s important to start thinking about preventative healthcare and making sure you are up to date on all necessary medical tests. These tests can help detect potential health issues early on, allowing for prompt treatment and better outcomes.
First and foremost, it’s important to schedule an annual physical examination with your primary care physician. During this visit, your physician will take your vital signs, such as your blood pressure and heart rate, and perform a general physical examination. They will also review your medical history and ask about any symptoms or concerns you may have.
In addition to your annual physical, there are several other medical tests that are recommended for individuals at the age of 35 or older. These include:
- Blood tests: These tests can check for a variety of things, such as anemia, diabetes, and high cholesterol. Your physician may also check your thyroid function and liver and kidney function.
- Pap smears: Women must start getting pap smears by the age of 21, or within three years after they have become sexually active – whichever comes first. This test is used to detect cervical cancer and any pre-cancerous changes in cells.
- Mammogram: Women over the age of 35 should have a mammogram every one to two years. Mammograms can detect breast cancer early, when it is most treatable.
- Colon cancer screening: Starting at the age of 45, men and women should begin having colon cancer screenings. There are several options for colon cancer screening, such as a colonoscopy or a stool test.
- Skin cancer screening: Skin cancer is the most common cancer in the United States, and it is important to have regular skin cancer screenings, especially if you have a history of sun exposure or a family history of skin cancer.
- Cholesterol check: High cholesterol is a risk factor for heart disease, so it is important to have your cholesterol checked regularly. Your physician may also check your triglycerides, which are a type of fat found in your blood.
- Blood pressure check: High blood pressure is another risk factor for heart disease, so it is important to have your blood pressure checked regularly.
- Eye exam: Regular eye exams are important to check for any vision changes and to detect any eye diseases such as glaucoma and cataracts.
- Dental exam: Regular dental exams are important to detect and prevent tooth decay, gum disease, and oral cancer.
In addition to these recommended tests, your physician may also order other tests based on your individual health needs and risk factors. For example, if you have a family history of a certain disease, your physician may recommend additional screenings or genetic testing.
It’s also important to make healthy lifestyle choices, such as eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and not smoking or using tobacco products, to help prevent the development of chronic diseases and improve your overall health.
It’s essential to keep in mind that these tests are recommendations and not all will apply to every person. It’s important to have a conversation with your primary care physician about what tests are right for you and when you should schedule them.
Overall, having regular check-ups, screenings, and preventative care is crucial to maintaining good health, and catching any potential issues early on. By staying on top of your health and adhering to these recommendations, you can give yourself the best chance at a long and healthy life.
