If you’re a young Gen Xer like me—or one of the first Millennials—that means you are in your 40’s. The time is right to address additional health concerns.
Even if you’ve spent your 20’s and 30’s living an active and healthy lifestyle, your body starts to change in your 40’s. And staying on top of doctor’s visits can help you minimize the risk of future complications or chronic, debilitating illnesses.
Taking control of your health in your 40’s with guidance from your physician is important for your longevity, as well as your quality of life as you age. These are five key appointments you should make as soon as you can.
1. A General Physical
This one should go without saying, but a general physical is the first appointment you want to make in your 40’s—and it should be an appointment you make every year. Your doctor will ask you questions about your medical history and update you on your allergies and medications.
The physical exam will include an evaluation of your heart, lungs and abdomen. This will give your doctor a snapshot about your current health status.
This is a great time to ask questions and discuss strategies for staying healthy.
2. Diabetes Screening
Diabetes screenings are important in your 40’s because, per the CDC, the risk of Type 2 diabetes increases with age beginning at age 45. Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes may be genetic. Type 2 is more commonly associated with poor eating habits.
It’s also connected to conditions like Polycystic Ovary SyndromeSymptoms include irregular periods, acne, unwelcome hair growth, weight gain, and other symptoms.
A simple blood test can detect diabetes and prediabetes. The doctor can provide advice about diet and exercise, as well as any medication or treatment that is necessary to manage or stimulate insulin.
A diabetes screening should be scheduled every year, just as a general exam.
3. STI Screening
Growing up in the 1980s meant that safe sex was a constant topic because of the rise in sexually transmitted infections (STIs), like HIV/AIDS. So, what I’m about to share might cause a bit of deja vu.
STIs are often associated to younger age groups. However, research shows that STIs are often associated with younger age groups. a dramatic increase in older adultsIn recent years. The majority of us between the ages of 40 and 44 are currently the second-largest category for new HIV infections.
No matter your relationship status—single, widowed, currently back in the dating pool after a divorce, or even married—it’s a good idea to get an STI screening if you’re having unprotected sex.
HIV can weaken your immune system. Syphilis can also cause neurological issues. Herpes can cause painful outbreaks. Hepatitis B or C can cause liver cirrhosis, cancer, and even death.
A screening for STIs will include a urine test for chlamydia, gonorrhea and trichomonas and a blood test to check for all other conditions.
4. Gynecological Examination
Annual gynecological exams are still very important in your 40’s, even if you’re done having kids or not sexually active. These appointments matter because of the growing prevalence of breast cancer, cervical cancer, autoimmune diseases, and hypertension in your 40’s.
Fertility can also be a major issue in your 40’s, and that means advanced fertility interventions might be necessary. For many of us, our 40’s is when we start our transition to menopause. It is wise to check in with your OBGYN at least once a year.
Your appointment will include a breast exam to check for lumps and skin changes. You’ll also get a pap smear and a screening test for cancer and precancer of the cervix.
If you’re looking to conceive in your 40’s, an appointment with your OBGYN can include testing to evaluate how aging is affecting your fertility.
5. Mammogram
You should schedule a mammogram in addition to your gynecological exam. The risk of breast cancer increases after the age of 50According to the CDC. But the purpose of screening in your 40’s is to identify abnormalities or cancer at an early age, so treatment can begin ASAP.
A mammogram simply shows doctors an x-ray of the breast. This is used to detect breast cancer early. This one appointment can save your life, even though it might seem strange to place your boobs on an x-ray plate and have them squished in an uncomfortable way. It’s absolutely worth it.
Other health appointments to consider in your 40’s are dermatological exams for early detection of skin cancers and a colonoscopy to test for colorectal cancer. It’s also a good idea to visit your dentist regularly because healthy teeth and gums can prevent inflammation, which can make you more susceptible to conditions like heart disease.
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