An annual physical can help your primary care provider get a good pulse on your health. It’s the best way to stay on top of your health and for your doctor to identify potential risks early.
Austin Ciccati, DO, an AdventHealth family medicine provider in Tampa, is here to share helpful tips on preventive screenings your doctor may recommend after an annual physical and what your physical can tell you about heart health.
The Importance of Annual Physicals
“During your annual physical, your primary care provider will check your vital signs, review your medical history and get an overall picture of your current health,” explains Dr. Ciccati. “They’ll also often recommend blood work or preventive screenings based on your age and gender.”
Health Screenings for Men and Women
The chart below breaks down common health screenings based on age and gender:
Men | Women | Both Men and Women |
|---|
At Age 20+ |
| | Pap test. Women aged 21 to 65 should have a Pap smear once every three years. A sample of cells from your cervix is sent to a lab for assessment. | Skin exam. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends seeing a dermatologist once a year to check for atypical moles or unusual changes in your skin. Cholesterol screening. The American Heart Association recommends healthy adults have their cholesterol checked every four to six years beginning at the age of 20, increasing in frequency as you age or your health changes. Diabetes screening. A simple blood test can check your glucose, also known as blood sugar level. Depression. Tests for depression come in the form of screening questions from your doctor. Depression support is available to you anytime by dialing 988. If you’re experiencing thoughts of self-harm or violence, seek immediate help by calling 911. |
At Age 40+ |
| | Mammogram. Screening guidelines from the American Cancer Society recommend women at average risk for breast cancer have an annual mammogram beginning at age 40. | |
At Age 45+ |
| | | Colonoscopy. The American Cancer Society recommends all adults receive their first colonoscopy at age 45. If the results are normal, you shouldn’t need another one for ten years. |
At Age 50+ |
| Prostate exam. The American Cancer Society recommends most men ages 50 and older have a prostate exam to check for signs of prostate cancer. Your doctor can perform a physical exam or order a blood test to check your blood for prostate-specific antigen (PSA). | | |
“If you have a family history of certain diseases, cancers or pre-existing health conditions, your primary care provider may suggest additional screenings or regular preventive screening beginning at a younger age,” shares Dr. Ciccati.
Annual Physicals and Your Heart Health
“Your annual physical is a prime time for your primary care provider to screen for your risk of heart disease,” says Dr. Ciccati.
One of the first things your health care provider will do at your annual physical is check your blood pressure. Your blood pressure reading gives doctors an initial look into your heart health and your numbers can be a factor in deciding whether further heart screening is needed. Your doctor may also order a lipid panel to check your cholesterol and triglyceride levels in your blood.
“Keeping your health in check with an annual physical and any recommended screenings is a great way to prioritize your lasting heart health,” says Dr. Ciccati.
Your Health Is the Heart of the Matter
To learn more about how an annual physical can benefit your lasting well-being, schedule an appointment today.
