Advice that can save your life

I turn 59-years old on April 18th and I’m going to stray from plastics on this post and give you all some solid advice relative to your health. The last few years I have had quite a few close friends, business associates, people I know of or incidents I’ve been made aware of where these people have died – and they have died at, younger or near, my age which is tragic and far too young. In many instances, their death could have potentially been prevented.

Let me give you some advice and list a few of the things that I do to ensure that I am getting preventive health screenings to catch a problem, before it becomes a major problem.

Coloscopy and Endoscopy: the new recommendation by The American Cancer Society is that everyone starts with their coloscopy screening at age 45. I cannot tell you how many people I am aware of that have died from colon cancer. While I am having the colonoscopy, I also ask for an endoscopy examination as well. This is especially important if you have a history of acid reflux, for example. My next screening is at the end of this month. The procedure is not as scary as it sounds at all. You’ll get an anesthesia which will pretty much knock you out.

Dermatologist screening: Yes, you have to completely take your clothes off for this exam but EVERY year you need to have this screening, especially those sun worship people. The age recommendation starts at 25-years old. During the full-body skin check the doctor will look for any troublesome moles or signs of other skin conditions. People die, and at very young ages, from Melanoma and it can happen fast. An annual exam is your best defense. I just had my screening. Oh yes, wear sun lotion protection as well when outdoors!

Dentist: I see my dentist 4-times a year and dental and gum (disease) are often precursors to other health problems in the body. Dentist now have reconfigured their offices and procedures to conform to COVID requirements. Do not put off your dental appointments.

Eye Doctor: Another exam that can potentially lead to prevention of other bodily complications as well. In addition, getting your vision checked annually, it might alter your glasses prescription, hence much safer for you, especially when driving at night.

Annual Complete Physical – a definite MUST DO, if you have not scheduled your exam, do it today as doctors can often be backed up 4-5 months out to get you in for a physical. You need to know your numbers: A1C (diabetes), Cholesterol numbers, Blood Pressure and have a complete blood work up.

Women – you know the exams and screenings you need to be getting as well.

Lastly, exercise every single day. If you can’t find at least 30-minutes for a daily walk, then get up earlier, or do it after work or during lunch break; rain or shine.  

I simply want to stress how important these annual exams are. Doing these things, but doing them ON-TIME, when they are required and recommended, can save your life. 

Live your best life NOW!