Primary Care

Use this chart...

to help guide your checkups with your healthcare provider. This information was compiled from recommendations made by various healthcare organizations and generally applies to healthy individuals without a specific disease or additional risk factors.

Talk with your physician...

to discuss and understand your personal health guidelines, because recommendations can vary depending on your situation. Your discussion should include a personal or family history of heart disease or stroke, cancer, thyroid disease, diabetes, glaucoma, high cholesterol, osteoporosis, and other important medical conditions.

Changes for a Healthier Lifestyle

Poor nutrition, a sedentary lifestyle, and being overweight are associated with a host of health problems, including heart disease, stroke, diabetes mellitus, and certain cancers. Making lifestyle changes now can help prevent these diseases and could help reduce the risk of premature death. The key, of course, is committing to lifestyle modifications for the long term.

• Don’t smoke

• Even modest amounts of weight loss can help decrease the risk of most diseases associated with obesity

• Aim for a diet that is low in fat and sodium and high in fiber
  

• Regular exercise not only reduces stress and helps promote weight loss but can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, improve musculoskeletal functioning, and help prevent diabetes and bone loss associated with aging

• Limit your alcohol intake

Test

Recommended Frequency

Weight

Annually

Blood Pressure

At least every 1-2 years

Cholesterol

At least once every 5 years

Immunizations

Tetanus-diphtheria: Every 10 years

Testicular Exam

Monthly self-exam
20-39 years - Every 1-3 years per healthcare provider
Age 40 and older - As part of routine exam

Diabetes Screening

Every 3 years or per healthcare provider

Eye Exam

Over age 40: Every 2-4 years as indicated