Although women generally live longer than men, they often fail to get recommended health screenings that could detect serious diseases and other health problems that affect quality of life.  While it is true that some of these health issues generally become a problem later in life, there are some screenings that should begin in early adulthood.  These are some common health screening tests, along with when to begin and how often to rescreen.
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With summer winding down, it’s time to schedule an annual school physical for your child.  Making an appointment before the child returns to school gives everyone more flexibility in scheduling a time that works best.  Many health changes can occur over a year’s time, so it is important for parents to keep the doctor informed.  The annual physical exam is an excellent opportunity for parents to ask specific questions about their child’s health.
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As we move toward the hottest weather of the summer season, it’s good to be aware of heat-related illnesses and how to treat them.  Working or exercising outdoors in hot, humid weather without adequate hydration can leave our bodies vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.  People who live in housing without air conditioning are also at risk.  These conditions will develop quickly when our bodies are no longer able to regulate our temperature and keep us cool.  Babies and the elderly will likely be the first ones affected by the heat.  They should be closely monitored.
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Summer heat is upon us, and it is essential to keep our bodies hydrated.  The body needs water to properly function and stay healthy.  Water helps us to maintain the right body temperature, remove waste products, and keeps our joints lubricated.  Keeping hydrated helps the body stay energized throughout the day and fights fatigue.
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Schools will soon be out, and summer camp season is fast approaching.  Most camps, whether overnight camps or day camps, require a camp physical to assure that children are healthy enough to participate in exercise and other physical activities.  Camps typically offer a variety of physical activities, some of which might be a new experience for your child.  Swimming, hiking, canoeing, climbing, and sports are strenuous activities.  It is important to identify any underlying medical issues that could cause a health problem.
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Skin cancer is the most common type of cancer in the U.S.  Recent studies show that the number of skin cancer cases is growing each year.  According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly 5 million people are treated each year for skin cancer.  Melanoma, the deadliest type of skin cancer, causes 9,000 deaths per year in the U.S.
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If you are one of millions of Americans who have been diagnosed with high cholesterol, there are some things you can do to improve your cholesterol levels.  While your doctor may prescribe medication such as a statin drug, there are lifestyle changes that may also be beneficial.  Eating a healthy diet, increasing your physical activity, and losing unwanted pounds can all help reduce high cholesterol levels and lead to improved overall health.
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Over the past several years, you may have noticed an increase in the number of gluten-free products on grocery shelves.  More and more restaurants are featuring gluten-free options on their menus.  This recent awareness surrounding gluten and its effects on many people has led to questions such as these:  What is gluten?  Where is it found?  Why are some of us adversely affected by it?
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Heart disease, or cardiovascular disease, is a buildup of plaque in the arteries that causes blockages or blood clots and can lead to a heart attack.  If the blood flow to a part of the heart muscle is completely cut off due to a blockage or clot, that part of the muscle begins to die.  The risk of a heart attack increases with age.  While men have a greater risk of suffering a heart attack earlier in life, a woman’s risk increases after menopause.
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Men of any age can develop testicular cancer, but it is the most common type of cancer for men ages 15-35 years.  More than 8,500 new cases are diagnosed in the U.S. each year.  Testicular cancer is among the most curable cancers, especially if diagnosed and treated in the early stages.  For men receiving treatment for early testicular cancer, the five-year survival rate is greater than 95 percent.
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