Don’t wait to be sick! Prevention is the best cure, especially as we age. Find out which medical examinations you should undergo soon.
As we age, the body becomes more susceptible to chronic diseases. Especially if you have a family history of certain pathologies. To avoid long-term complications, it is necessary to carry out periodic medical examinations. These will make it possible to detect a possible health problem at an early stage.
After the age of 50, the risk of suffering from diseases increases. For this reason, we invite you to find out about the medical examinations that you must pass between the ages of 40 and 65.
General medical examinations recommended for people over 40
There is a series of general medical examinations which are recommended for all adults over 40. They are not reserved for patients who already have a history; these are screening methods for the general population.
1. Colon cancer screening
The examination most recommended by experts for the detection of colon cancer is colonoscopy, a test in which the colon is examined with a flexible tube fitted with a camera. There are also other options, such as fecal occult blood testing and rectosigmoidoscopy, but their sensitivity is lower.
Colon cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States. Therefore, its early detection is essential to initiate an effective approach.
Between the ages of 50 and 75, a check-up of this type must be carried out, even in the absence of symptoms.
2. Body weight
Overweight and obesity can significantly increase the risk of chronic disease. According to scientific studies, weight gain is associated with diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea and certain types of cancer.
You should be aware of your weight with your doctor and manage to counteract this risk factor through a healthy diet and regular physical activity. These are simple steps that could change your quality of life.
3. Blood pressure measurement
This is a quick and simple test that measures the force that blood exerts on the walls of arteries as it travels through the body. A device called sphygmomanomètre is used to perform the measurement. This consists of an inflatable cuff that is placed around the arm and a manometer that measures the pressure.
Blood pressure measurement is simple, inexpensive and quick. In general, it can be clarified in the office with your trusted doctor.
A blood pressure measurement every four months is an optimal frequency from the age of 40.
4. Cholesterol analysis
The cholesterol test is done as part of a blood test. The amount of cholesterol and triglycerides is measured. The first are divided into total cholesterol, HDL or bon cholesterol and LDL or bad cholesterol.
If total cholesterol or LDL levels are high, your doctor may recommend diet and lifestyle changes to prevent cardiovascular or liver disease.
5. Blood sugar test
A blood sugar test is done to check for diabetes or prediabetes. It also detects hypoglycemia, a condition in which blood sugar levels are abnormally low. This examination must be taken on an empty stomach.
Blood sugar should be measured every 3 years from the age of 45.
6. Ophthalmological analysis
A complete eye examination is important around the age of 40. However, if you have vision problems or a family history of glaucoma, for example, it is recommended to have a check-up before this age.
7. Physical examination
It is important to periodically undergo an examination with your attending physician. This allows diseases to be detected early and the risk of future problems to be assessed.
The general examination ranges from psychological examination to examination of eating habits and skin examinations. And this, in order to assess the general state of health.
Tests recommended for women over 40
There are specific medical tests for women over 40. Since menopause can increase the risk of certain diseases, early detection of the most frequent pathologies is a priority.
8. Bone densitometry
The most common test for detecting osteoporosis is bone densitometry (BMD). Il measures the concentration and density of bone in certain areas of the bodyusually in the spine, hip and wrist.
Osteoporosis is more common in women, but it can also occur in men. Experts insist that women perform periodic check-ups.
A BMD should be performed every 3 to 5 years in women without ongoing treatment for osteoporosis.
9. Breast cancer screening
The screening test par excellence for breast cancer is mammography, which is a specific x-ray of the breasts. He is recommended that women over 40 have a mammogram every two years for early detection.
However, women who have had or have a sister or mother with breast cancer should consider annual mammograms.
Between the ages of 45 and 55, women should have a mammogram every year.
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10. Screening for cervical cancer
Cervical cancer is a type of neoplasm that develops in the lower part of the uterus and can be caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV). Its early detection is essential for a successful approach.
This is why the Pap test is recommended for women from the age of 21. In the event of a negative result, this must be repeated every 3 years until the age of 65.
The HPV test, now available in some countries, can be performed every 5 years between the ages of 30 and 65.
Medical examinations recommended for men over 40
There are examinations recommended only for men, due to their anatomical particularities. Specifically, we refer to the prostate and the risk of cancer of this organ.
11. Screening for prostate cancer
Early detection of prostate cancer is important because most cases are asymptomatic in the early stages. This means that the obvious symptoms only appear when the disease has progressed.
The screening test for prostate cancer is called prostate specific antigen test or test PSA. It is determined by a blood test.
In addition to the PSA test, men can undergo a digital rectal examination, to check for any irregularities or abnormalities in the prostate. Faced with suspicion, other more specific studies will be carried out.
From the age of 40, an annual PSA measurement is recommended.
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Medical analysis for better living
Over the years, the body undergoes changes that increase the risk of chronic diseases. After the age of 50, the body becomes more vulnerable. This is due to a combination of factors.
This is why it is important to take care of your health over the years. This involves healthy eating, physical exercise, low alcohol consumption and screening tests.
Preventive exams are a valuable tool for detecting problems before they become serious and debilitating illnesses. Maintaining a close relationship with your doctor will help you make informed decisions.
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