Hawaii News Now - KGMB and KHNL HomeMedical Tests Recommended by Doctors
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By Angela Keen /Healthcast Reporter
You take good care of keeping your car tuned up but what about your body? medical tests you should be taking-- to stay well
Here is a look at some of the medical screening and tests doctors are recommending now. Every 3 to 5 years adults should get their cholesterol checked, it involves getting blood drawn.
Doctors may order a complete blood count and urinalysis at your yearly check-up. Some physicians recommend e-k-g's starting at age 50. After your first e-k-g (after 50) you should have them every 5 years to detect any possible heart problems.
Also at age 50, colonoscopies. A cololoscopy should be repeated every 5 to 10 years if the results are normal. Your doctor may recommend a colonoscopy at an earlier age if you have a family history or certain colon symptoms.
Next, immunizations. Physicians say they aren't just for babies. It is recommended that adults get immunized against tetanus and diphtheria every 10 years.
Physicians also say people over age 65 should get the pneumococcal pneumonia vaccine every 7 years, while all adults are encouraged to get their yearly flu shot.
Experts suggest adults should get the measles, mumps and rubella vaccine if they aren't sure whether they've ever been immunized. Some tests are gender-specific. Most women should get an annual pap smear. This checks for changes in cells that could one day signal cervical cancer. The pap test is -not- intended as a screen for S-T-D's (sexually transmitted diseases).
Women are also encouraged to do self breast self-exams. Beginning at age 40, women should have their yearly mammogram and have their thyroid checked every 5 years.
Men should have a yearly P-S-A test that's the prostate-specific antigen blood test beginning at age 50. The "PSA" test is a screening tool for prostate cancer.
If you have any questions or concerns about certain medical tests you should talk to your physician.
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