Annual Checkups Aren't What They Used to Be

Wednesday, December 04, 2002

ROCHESTER, Minn. — Remember the annual checkup with a battery of tests? For most people, it's history.

Instead, time with your doctor is probably better spent assessing your individual health risks and providing preventive services, according to the December issue of Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource. That's because the leading causes of most diseases are linked to a handful of individual risk factors — smoking, physical inactivity, poor nutrition, alcohol consumption, drug abuse and lack of attention to safety precautions.

When you see a health-care professional for a periodic visit, here are some questions to ask:

* Is my health better, the same or worse compared to my last visit?

* What are my risks for certain illnesses such as diabetes, cancer and heart disease?

* What screening tests should I have?

* What are the best ways I can maintain my health?

* Do I need to update any immunizations such as tetanus? What about flu or pneumonia shots?

Carol Lammers
507-284-5005 (days)
507-284-2511(evenings)
email: newsbureau@mayo.edu

Mayo Clinic Women's HealthSource is published monthly to help women enjoy healthier, more productive lives. Revenue from subscriptions is used to support medical research at Mayo Clinic. To subscribe, please call 800-876-8633, extension 9PK1.

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