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27.04.06: Preventative Medicine
An annual "physical" for healthy adults is no longer necessary. If you have an ongoing condition or feel unwell, see your doctor as often as required, but for the majority of well adults, an exam every 2 to 3 years is sufficient. At this check-up your doctor will focus on health concerns of particular relevance to your age group as well as to you personally. If you have symptoms or risk factors, your doctor will advise you on appropriate investigations for your specific situation.
The following are guidelines for immunizations and basic examinations for healthy adults. Recommendations may vary from country to country.
Men and Women
Pneumococcal pneumonia vaccination for people over age 65
Flu vaccination for people over 65 and for younger adults with chronic illness, once yearly.
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Blood pressure measurement every year. (Can be done anytime you visit your doctor.)
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Sigmoidoscopy (examination of lower bowel) every 3-5 years over 50 years.
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Stool for occult blood * yearly over 50 years.
Women
- yearly, from the time you become sexually active or reach age 18, whichever comes first.
- yearly, from age 50
- yearly, after age 30
- every 3-5 years from age 45-65
Men
- every 3-5 years age 35 - 65
- yearly after age 50
controversial because of uncertain benefit
Medical science continues to improve both detection and treatment of disease. Even our family inheritance which was once thought to be unchangeable may soon be open to change.
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