Greetings!
AAA forecasts that 39 million Americans will have traveled 50 miles or more just during the Independence Day holiday weekend. To assure a safe trip, many of these travelers will have performed regularly scheduled maintenance checks on their car before they hit the road. If we take our car in for regular checkups - why shouldn't the same be true for our health? Please continue reading to learn more: |
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On the Road to Good Health
Routine visits with your physician and age-appropriate screenings can make sure your road trip through life is as long as possible. Our Bon Secours Medical Group consists of outstanding primary care physicians and specialist working together to bring a special level of care to our patients. If you don't currently have a physician, consider making Bon Secours St. Francis your medical home and your first stop on the road to good health. Our online physician search makes the process of finding a physician near your home or work easy!
Preventative Screenings
The tests you should have and when you should have them will depend on your individual health history, however, here are a few general guidelines that will help you put the pedal to the metal when it comes to your health:
Prostate cancer (men) - Beginning at age 40 you should discuss with your St. Francis medical provider the prostate cancer screening is best for you.
Bone health (women) - You should have a bone mineral density test at least once after age 65, or younger if you have a family history of osteoporosis.
Breast cancer (women) - Have a clinical breast exam as part of your regular checkup beginning at age 18, and begin having annual mammograms at age 40.
Diabetes (men and women) - You should have a blood sugar test every three years beginning at age 45.
Heart health (men and women) - Have your blood pressure checked at least every two years begninning at age 18. Speak with your St. Francis physician about cholesterol testing beginning at age 20.
Stay on the Road
We all know the importance of buckling up for safety while on the road, but did you know that safeguarding your health can be as simple as making a few lifestyle changes? Use the following guidelines as a roadmap to healthier living:
- Don't smoke.
- Aim for a diet filled with fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, low or non fat dairy products, and lean protein.
- Get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days of the week.
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It's Time to Save Your Life
Take control of your health today by taking the St. Francis Health Aware Assessment, a simple 7 minute survey to assess your risk of developing premature heart disease, vascular disease, sleep disorders and diabetes. Just click here to commit yourself to good health. Knowing your risk profile can help save your life!
Click the image on the left to view an important message from Vice President Johnna Reed. |
