Are Routine Check-Ups Really Necessary?

One of the many questions being asked about medical care these days is whether the routine check-up really keeps you healthy. The value of check-ups and their frequency depends mainly on your age and gender. Your personal and family medical histories are also important. The following exams, measurements and lab tests help identify treatable problems early. For many medical conditions, early treatment can help prevent more serious problems. If you have any ongoing health problems you will probably need to see your provider more often. These schedules should be used for “well care.” In addition to seeing the health care provider regularly, you should try to maintain your weight at a comfortable, health level and do frequent physical activity or get regular exercise.
The recommendations listed below are based on guidelines developed by the American Academy of Family Physicians and the U.S. Preventative Health Task Force. They are guidelines for how often you should get routine check-ups by your health care provider:
What needs to be Checked and How Often?
MEN 18-39 YEARS OLD: Every Year, Dental exam, every 2-3 Years

Blood pressure, height and weight measurements, and brief physical

Every 5 Years, Cholesterol check
MEN 40-65 YEARS OLD: Every Year, Physical exam for cancer (skin, thyroid, lymph nodes, prostate and rectum), Dental exam

Every 1-2 Years -Height/weight measurements, Blood Pressure check, Stool sample check for blood, Vision and glaucoma check

Every 3-5 Years -Cholesterol check, Blood sugar check, Sigmoidoscopy after age 50 for colon cancer
MEN OVER 65 YEARS OLD: Every Year, Height/weight , measurements, Blood pressure check, Physical exam for cancers (skin, thyroid, lymph nodes, prostate and rectum) Stool sample check for blood, Dental exam

Every 1-3 Years, Thyroid hormone check, Blood count, Cholesterol check

Blood sugar check, Hearing check, Vision and Glaucoma check, Lab tests or urine sample, every 3-5 Years, Sigmoidoscopy for colon cancer.
Should You Have a PSA Test? Prostate specific antigen (PSA) is a blood test that can be helpful in detecting prostate cancer. There is some controversy, however, about the value of the PSA test and whether it should be done routinely for men over a certain age. Ask your health care provider.