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As the first few months of the new year begin, you are likely spending a good portion of your time thinking about the past year and how you would like to do things differently this year. One of the changes that you can make in the new year is to make your preventive health care a priority for yourself beginning this year. Many people only go to the doctor when they develop a problem such as not feeling well or suffering an injury. However, this is not all that health care professionals can do for you. Preventive care to avoid serious illnesses or detect problems in their early stages can be even more important than going when you are sick. Get to know a few of the preventive health care appointments you should make for yourself this year.

Colorectal Cancer Screening

If you are an adult over the age of 50 or you have a family history of colon cancer, then one of the most important preventive health screening appointments to make is a colorectal cancer screening, also known as a colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a procedure that involves a small, thin device known as a colonoscope that is inserted into the rectum to show the doctor images of the colon.

These images allow the doctor to look for polyps (small growths) in the colon as well as other issues that could indicate colon cancer or other issues such as diverticulosis or diverticulitis. If any polyps are discovered, the doctor can remove those to test for cancer or pre-cancerous cells and get you the early treatment you need if cancer is detected. A specialist like Pilipshen Colon and Rectal Surgical Services or others can help with any questions you might have.

Blood Pressure and Cholesterol Screenings

One of the most common issues that both men and women in the United States experience are heart and cardiovascular health issues. As such, when you make preventive care a priority in your health care, you should be sure to ensure cardiovascular health screenings are a part of your plan.

Getting your blood pressure and cholesterol levels tested are the easiest and least invasive ways to look at your cardiovascular health. The blood pressure test is simply the cuff on your arm that your doctor usually does when you go in to the doctor anyway. A cholesterol screening is a simple blood test that looks at the levels of both good and bad cholesterol in your blood.

If you have elevated bad cholesterol or high blood pressure, the earlier you find out, the easier it is to deal with. When your cholesterol levels and blood pressure are only slightly elevated, you can make adjustments to your diet and fitness routine without relying on prescription medications or surgical interventions.

Now that you know a few of the preventive health care appointments that you can make for yourself in the new year, you can call your doctor and get started making your preventive care a priority this year and moving forward.