Prevention is not only better than cure but also cheaper, therefore medical practice and Public Health place more emphasis on prevention in recent times. Preventive medicine has long been considered the answer to better health. Regular check-ups are important to help identify risk factors and problems before they become serious. If diseases are caught early, treatments are usually much more effective. Depending on your age, sex and family medical history, a check up with your Doctor may include:
1. Blood, Urine, Vision and hearing test to evaluate your overall health
2. Assessment of your blood pressure, cholesterol level and weight.
3. A discussion about your diet, exercise habits, any tobacco, drug and alcohol use.
4. Immunizations and Booster Shots
5. Depending on your age and sexual lifestyle, testing for STD's and possibly HIV.
6. A discussion about depression and stress to evaluate your mental health.
7. Screening tests to assess your risk of developing certain diseases including diabetes and Cancer
A Health Screen comprises of tests and procedures carried out on an individual to check for the presence or absence of certain disease in the background of certain risk factors. Preventive care through Screening, Vaccinations and necessary precautions on a broad scale would actually lower health care costs and give us a better life because those with chronic conditions would be treated before they reach a crisis stage or end up in the emergency room. For Cancers which in recent times have become a major health issue amongst us blacks, early detection is key.
Let's change our attitude towards health checks today. Life is Precious and when it comes to health, the Preventive Health Check gives you knowledge to fight diseases at an early stage.
Have you done your Health Check for the year? If not, hurry down to any nearby health centre now.
Health is Wealth!