4 nmrmc.com If you want to stay on top of your health, here are two words to remember: Get screened. Screening tests and exams help doctors find diseases and health problems before they produce symptoms. That’s when they’re typically easiest to treat. For example, if you discover through screening that your blood pressure or blood sugar levels are elevated, your doctor will work with you on any lifestyle changes or medications you may need that will help prevent complications like heart disease, kidney failure and type 2 diabetes. 4 key screenings Health screenings are based on things like your age and medical history. Your doctor can help determine what’s right for you. But here are four of the most common health screenings that all adults need. Blood pressure. High blood pressure that isn’t detected and treated can damage blood vessels in the kidneys, eyes, heart and other organs. Your doctor will check your blood pressure at your annual wellness visits and any other appointments. Cholesterol. Abnormal blood cholesterol levels can lead to plaque buildup in arteries, raising the risk for conditions like stroke, heart attack, poor circulation in the legs and even erectile dysfunction. A blood test can reveal your cholesterol levels. Men should have regular cholesterol checks by age 30 and women by age 35. But your doctor may order a cholesterol test sooner, depending on your medical history and lifestyle risk factors, such as your diet. Colorectal cancer. There are several ways to be screened for colorectal cancer, and you should talk with your doctor about the best method for you. But there is only one method that both prevents the disease and can catch it early: a colonoscopy. During a colonoscopy, a doctor can find and remove polyps in the colon before they might become cancerous. Most people should begin screening at age 45. Those with a family history of colorectal cancer or who have other risk factors may need to start screening sooner. Diabetes. Elevated blood sugar (glucose) levels that aren’t well controlled can lead to many health complications, Take the TEST Screenings are a healthy choice
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