Testing and early detection is the key to good health. But what kind of tests do you really need?
In today’s Health Alert, I’ll show you what kind of health checks you should get and why. I’ll also tell you about some important tests that your doctor may overlook.
The Secret is Knowing what to Look For
Many doctors are under pressure from insurance companies to order less testing. In many cases your insurance company claims to cover the test but then makes the paperwork cumbersome to discourage doctors from ordering them.
When I evaluate a new patient, more often than not, some of these tests are not on record. These tests could save your life. I have come up with a routine “inspection schedule” for people to increase their odds of living a long and healthy life.
Health Schedule
| Category | Tests | Frequency | Importance |
| Fat and Muscle | Body Composition | Twice a Year | Combat Obesity |
| Heart | CRP, CoQ10, Homocysteine | Twice a Year | Cardiac Risk |
| Men: Sex Hormones | Testosterone, DHEA, DHT, Estrogen | Once a Year | Monitor Changes with Age |
| Women: Sex Hormones | Estrogen, Testosterone, DHEA, Progesterone | Once a Year | Check for Hormonal Imbalances |
| Prostate | PSA Test | Once a Year | Early Detection of Prostate Cancer |
| Prostate and Colon | Colorectal and Prostate Exam | Every 2 Years | Early Detection of Cancer |
| Uterus, Breast & Colon | Pap Smear, Uterine, Breast & Colon Exam | Every 2 Years | Early Detection of Cancer |
| Bone | Bone Density | Every 2 Years | Tracks Rate of Bone Loss |
Speak Up, and Ask for what You Need
If your doctor doesn’t routinely perform these tests, talk to him about it. He may order them if you ask.
If any of your tests indicate abnormalities, you should monitor the condition more frequently. And if you are at high risk for a specific disease, you should monitor it more often.
Your doctor may also suggest aggressive therapies if your tests come back abnormal. For example, many doctors will suggest “slashing and burning” the prostate if a PSA test is abnormal. Ask about alternative treatments. And take caution before accepting invasive or toxic approaches.
To Your Good Health,
Al Sears MD