Let’s face it, nobody likes going to the doctor, especially if you’re a truck driver. You’re finally at home, with your family, the last thing you want to do is waste your time sitting in a waiting room for a checkup. But, is it a waste of time?
How often is a regular checkup?
If there’s one thing you take away from this – go see your doctor based on the below-suggested schedule:
- For ages 19-21, once every 2-3 years.
- For ages 22-64, once every 1-3 years.
- Over 65, once a year.
Below is a list of common tests your doctor may complete during a check-up:
Blood pressure test: Get tested at least every 2 years if you have normal blood pressure (lower than 120/80). Get tested once a year if you have blood pressure between 120/80 and 139/89. Discuss treatment with your doctor if you have blood pressure 140/90 or higher.
Cholesterol test: Starting at age 20 until age 35, get a cholesterol test if you are at increased risk for heart disease. Starting at age 35 and older, get a cholesterol test regularly.
Diabetes screening: Get screened for diabetes if your blood pressure is higher than 135/80 or if you take medicine for high blood pressure.
Hearing screening: Every 10 years until you’re 40 and then every 2-4 years as your doctor recommends.
Eye health: A comprehensive “baseline” exam for vision should be done at age 40, then again every 2-4 years or as your doctor recommends.
Colorectal cancer screening: Starting at age 50, get screened for colorectal cancer through to age 75.
40% to 60% of men and 10% to 30% of women between the ages of 18 to 50 do not go for regular checkups, or even when they feel something is wrong. The reasoning being that they are young, that their schedule is too busy, or that they are afraid of what might possibly be found. By seeing your doctor on a regular basis and getting these “silly” tests done you are helping detect and prevent different diseases, illnesses and even establishing better health habits for a long and healthy life.
