See Your Doctor for an Annual Checkup and Health Screenings

Each year, on your birthday, schedule a checkup with your doctor.  Ask your doctor for advice on reaching or maintaining a healthy weight and how often you need the following tests:

Men and Women

• Have your blood pressure measured every two years starting at age 20;
• Have your body mass index (BMI) measured at every regular health-care visit starting at age 20;
• Have your cholesterol measured at least every five years starting at age 20;
• Have your blood glucose (sugar) level measure every three years starting at age 45; and
• Have a colorectal screening every one to 10 years depending on the test the doctor uses starting at age 50.

Women

• Have a clinical breast exam (CBE) every three years starting at age 20 and then yearly after age 40;
• a mammogram yearly starting at age 40;
• and a Pap test every year starting at age 20 and then every one to three years after age 30, depending on the test the doctor uses and past results.

Men

• Have a prostate specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exam starting at age 50. Ask your doctor about the pros and cons of testing

Get Help to Maintain a Healthy Weight

• Ask your doctor for help losing weight.  Excess weight increases your risk of cancer, diabetes, heart disease and stroke. To achieve steady weight loss, eat 200-300 calories less each day, and strive for at least 30 minutes of physical activity five days a week or more.

Source:  “Everyday Choices for a Healthier Life” campaign sponsored by the American Cancer Society, American Diabetes Association and the American Heart Association, www.everydaychoices.org.