"Time is generally the best doctor." – Ovid

     Preventative health care critical to good health.  Unfortunately, many health care tests are not done.  Taking responsibility to assure proper testing is a team effort between patient and doctor. 

     As a patient you have more to lose if one of these tests are omited – take responsibility to assure that these tests are completed.  The best way to do this is to print off a copy of the preventative health care worksheet at (http://www.fastandeasyhealth.com/Communication.html ) and record the dates that each  test or screen is done.  Discuss each test that has not been done with your doctor. 

    Below is a list of key preventative tests that each male should have or at least discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.  Future blog entries will discuss further details about each of the screens. 

1. Cholesterol test - every 5 years starting at age 35, some experts say start at age 20
2. Diabetes screen – every 1-3 years after age 45, those with blood pressure more than 135/85 mm Hg or overweight individuals
3. Thyroid screen starting at age 35 and then every five years
4. STD screen - testing for syphilis and HIV in high risk people.  Everyone should be screened for HIV at least one time.
5. Blood pressure every 1 - 2 years
6. Bone density test – after age 50 in high risk individuals
7. Colon cancer – at age 50.  Done by looking for blood in the stool every year, a sigmoidoscopy every five years or colonoscopy every 10 years
8. Prostate cancer screen –blood test every two to four years starting at age 50 
9. Depression screen – every year
10.  Height and weight - every year

More great prevenatative health care information at http://blog.fastandeasyhealth.com