The Importance of Physical Exams
Alexis Sorrell MD
Why to get a physical exam...
Everyone should get regular physical exam to prevent potential issues from occurring. You also should get a regular physical exam to check for issues that could get worse.
Mammograms
Women between the ages of 40 to 70 should get a mammogram to prevent breast cancer. Women should get a mammogram every 1-2 years.
http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/detection/mammograms
Title of the article: Mammograms
Pap Smears
Women should start getting pap smears after the age of 21 and usually stop getting them after the age of 65-70. Women should get these every two years to check for cervical cancer.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003911.htm
Title: Pap Smear
Prostate Exam
Men should get a prostate exam after the age of 50, every 4 years. This is to check to see if they have prostate cancer.
http://www.medicinenet.com/script/main/art.asp?articlekey=24521
Title: Prostate Exam Every 4 Years
Facts
1. If you’re under 30 and healthy – don’t smoke, no disease risk factors (including being overweight) and don’t take prescription medications - get a check-up every two to three years.
2. Heidi Doyle, PA-C, a physician assistant with North Hills Internal Medicine, a Duke Primary Care clinic, says, “Regular check-ups are important to maintain a relationship with your doctor and to receive individualized counseling based on your family health history and your lifestyle.”
URL: http://www.dukehealth.org/health_library/health_articles/should-you-get-an-annual-physical
Three Additional Tests Done During a Routine Exam
- Lung exams- your doctor will listen to your lungs for any cracking noises when you breathe.
- Head and neck exam- your doctor will check you eyes, ears, nose, and throat.
- Heart exam- your doctor will listen for any irregular heartbeats.
Importance of Physical Exams