Most people consider the idea of getting a health check to be the signal that old age and infirmity has finally set in, and thus avoid having one as long as possible. While it’s true the body doesn’t really start to show the effects of aging, diet, stress and substance abuse until after 40 years, that’s no reason not to remain alert as you march towards that decade. A good diet, a bit of exercise and a happy life are the best preventative measures a person can take, but at some point regular health checks by a physician need to be incorporated.

Procedure information
Health checks should begin around 30 years of age, watching for some early killers such as breast cancer for women, testicular cancer for men, and cholesterol levels for both. Once you reach your 40s, it’s more important to stay on top of any lurking health conditions.

Preventative care is the best care, and many health checks can be done by yourself with a little education. Doctors will normally advise you to quit smoking, cut back on drinking and reduce stress. Men need to regularly check for prostate cancer after this age, and women should focus on ovarian and breast cancer.

During the 50s, health checks become essential. Disease may start to set in, and the body begins to show normal signs of aging which need to be monitored like blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

Recovery time
A family practitioner is a good place to start when you’re in your 30s. By developing a relationship with one general physician, you can build a confidence level that will make future health checks more comfortable. Occasionally, a trip to the hospital is necessary for serious tests and yearly checkups.

Many specific health issues can be self-monitored, but you’ll always need the expert advice of a licensed physician in the end. Knowing your own body however is the first step towards becoming aware of changes.