Doc, I want a check-up

"Doc, I want a check-up", is a frequent request in the general practitioner's office. What are the elements of a check-up? Check-ups help to identify your risks for ill-health before it strikes. Special emphasis is placed on prevention of sexually transmitted infections such as HIV/ AIDS. The use of condoms for family planning is also reinforced.

Body measurements

The check-up is an opportunity to initiate interventions to prevent cancers and chronic lifestyle diseases such as hypertension, diabetes and high cholesterol. This is the time to check your weight, height, waist and hip circumferences. These measurements provide information on your body mass index (BMI) which can predict your risks for cancers and cardiovascular diseases.

Advice on violence prevention

The check-up involves receiving counselling on violence prevention, occupational health and mental health. Men are reminded about wearing seatbelts and helmets and are educated about the dangers of tobacco use, alcohol and cannabis abuse.

Immunisation

This is the time for everyone, adults and children, to review their immunisation status and check for information about missing boosters. Adults need protection against tetanus (lock-jaw) and diphtheria at least every 10 years. They may also need protection from hepatitis B, mumps, measles and rubella.

Screening

Cancer screening is important for everyone, but men aged 40 and older must screen for cancers of the prostate, colon, rectum and lungs. Your blood pressure should be checked to screen for hypertension. Since diabetes mellitus is fairly common in our population, your blood sugar should be checked if you are over 35, especially if someone in your family has diabetes. All persons over age 40 should have their cholesterol checked too.

Dental and eye examinations

A complete check-up involves dental and eye examinations. These tend to be relegated to the bottom of the pile but are essential for optimal health. Unfortunately, glaucoma is common among our population and is a leading cause of blindness. It can only be detected by measuring the pressure in the eyes. All persons over 40 should have their eyes checked every two years. Regular dental interventions not only reduce tooth decay and tooth loss but also reduce the presence of bacteria in the mouth that may cause infections in other parts of the body.

Is it time for your check-up?

Check-ups are ideal ways of optimising your health. You and the health provider can identify your risks for illness and screen for diseases at an early stage. You will be able to implement strategies for prevention of lifestyle diseases and plan for a long and healthy life.

Dr Pauline Williams-Green is a family physician and past president of the Caribbean College of Family Physicians; email: yourhealth@gleanerjm.com.