Preventive Care 101: Staying Ahead of Health Issues

The Case for Prevention Preventive care is about addressing health before illness strikes. Regular checkups, screenings, and vaccines reduce long-term risks and costs. The goal is early detection — spotting small problems before they escalate.

Routine Screenings

Schedule annual physicals and blood tests to monitor cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar. For women, mammograms and cervical screenings are essential; for men, prostate checks after 50 are recommended. Everyone benefits from colon cancer screening starting at age 45, or earlier with family history.

Vaccinations and Boosters

Immunizations aren’t just for children. Annual flu shots, tetanus boosters, and COVID-19 updates prevent serious illness. Travelers should research regional vaccine needs before trips.

Lifestyle as Prevention

Nutrition, sleep, and regular exercise remain the strongest preventive measures. Avoid smoking, limit alcohol, and manage stress — lifestyle habits account for more than 70% of chronic disease risk.