Your New Year Health Checklist
The new year is upon is! Now is the perfect time to embark on a healthier lifestyle to build on throughout the rest of the year. With the holiday rush behind us, take a moment to focus on what matters most—your health. As you set your goals for the new year, remember to put yourself first and prioritize your wellbeing.
“January is a great time to prioritize healthy habits, such as eating well, staying active, and getting enough rest. And don’t forget to make any medical appointments you have been putting off,” says PIH Health Physician Emanuela Bonfoco MD PhD, a family medicine physician at PIH Health Washington medical office building. “Schedule your health screenings and checkups, and take charge of your health moving forward.”
It’s important to maintain routine appointments and screenings so that your primary care physician (PCP) and other health providers can detect potential health concerns early, when they are more treatable. Screening for common health issues and regular doctor visits can keep you from developing a more serious medical condition and may keep you out of the hospital.
Below are some appointments to get on your calendar this new year:
Annual physical. This yearly appointment serves as an opportunity for screening, checkups, and counseling. Even if you are feeling fine now, physicals or routine preventative services are intended to catch potential health problems early. Your PCP will review your medical history, may order lab tests, and keep you up to date on recommended vaccinations.
Cancer screenings. Depending on your age, gender, family history, and health status, it may be time for you to have important cancer screenings done.
- It is recommended that colorectal cancer screenings begin at age 45 if you are at average risk. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, it’s crucial to talk to your doctor about getting screened even earlier than 45.
- Women should talk to their doctor starting at age 40 to decide when to begin mammogram screenings and how often to get them.
- Women should also ask how often they need PAP/HPV screenings to protect against cervical cancer, depending on their age.
- Men should discuss the benefits and risks of screening for prostate cancer.
- Getting a full-body check by a dermatologist to check for skin cancer is recommended annually, especially if you are fair-skinned or have a family history of skin cancer.
- If you are a long-time current or former smoker, you should ask whether screening for lung cancer with a low-dose CT scan is recommended.
Other important exams. When was your last vision or hearing exam? Are you keeping up with routine dental checkups and cleanings? Is it time to screen for bone density?
- Eye exams are recommended every 1 to 5 years, depending on your age and whether you have any vision problems or medical issues.
- It’s recommended that you have your hearing checked every 3 to 5 years until age 40 and then more often after that, if you have any signs of hearing loss. This is often done during your annual physical so you may not need to make a separate appointment.
- It is suggested that you visit a dentist every six months to get a professional cleaning. This prevents cavities and can keep your gums healthier leading to a more confident smile.
- If you are a woman aged 65 or older or are at an increased risk for osteoporosis, ask your physician if a bone density scan is appropriate for you
Visit PIHHealth.org/Screenings to learn about cancer screening services at PIH Health. You can act now and schedule an appointment with your doctor to see which screenings are most appropriate for you. To find a PIH Health Physician near you, visit PIHHealth.org/Doctors
