You take care of our house and car, but do you get the health screening tests that help you care for your body? There are certain tests that you should have done to find disease early, helping you get back to good health faster and easier.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is the amount of fat that you have in your blood. Too much fat in your blood can lead to the hardening of your arteries and heart attacks. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends a yearly cholesterol screening that can be done with a blood test at a doctor's office.
Blood Pressure
Blood pressure should be checked at least once every two years. If you visit GCCMH's Main Campus at 420 W. Fifth Avenue, you can test your blood pressure in the Health Corner of the lobby. High blood pressure affects millions of Americans and leads to an early death.
Diabetes
Diabetes can lead to blindness and the loss of arms and legs. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, 24 million Americans have diabetes, and another 54 million have pre-diabetes. A simple blood test can show whether your blood sugar (glucose) levels are within a healthy range.
Cancer
Cancer screenings are also done by a doctor. Pap smears for women should be done every two years to test for cervical cancer. Mammograms should be done every 1 to 2 years after age 40 to catch breast cancer. Colorectal screening is for both men and women and should be done every 1 to 2 years after the age of 50.
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Most sexually transmitted infections have a cure. Keep you and your partners healthy by getting tested frequently and wearing condoms. Tests can be done at a doctor's office or at your local public health department.
Weight
Obesity can lead into many other health problems such as diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cancer, and heart disease. Use the BMI calculator on the
Interactive Tools page to see if you have a healthy weight.