Preventive screening is important to detect or eliminate the possibility that someone has or may be in the process of developing a potential medical issue. Health-conscious individuals in general tend to request preventive screening in order to ensure that they are in optimal health. In the event that there may be signs or various indicators of a specific condition, these individuals tend to be proactive and seek medical advice and attention.

Recent data shows that Americans in their 50s have higher rates of specific medical conditions than their parents’ generation, however. These include, but aren’t limited to, the following types of issues:

• High blood pressure
• Diabetes
• High cholesterol

High blood pressure, for example, is experienced by roughly 75 million adults. It has been demonstrated that high blood pressure can cause or otherwise lead to a variety of serious issues. This is why having a blood pressure screening can assist these individuals with monitoring and then addressing their blood pressure through a variety of methods.

When someone has high cholesterol, it’s important to note that they have a greater risk for developing heart disease. According to experts, these individuals have twice the risk of developing this serious disease. On an annual basis, approximately 735,000 Americans experience a heart attack. While men as well as women experience heart attacks, it has been estimated that 88,000 women between 45 to 64 do so every year. Heart health and other preventive screening can assist with identifying these and related issues.

There are various types and stages of diabetes. When identified and appropriately treated early on through glucose screening and regular monitoring, individuals may be able to better manage this disease. Medical experts may also encourage individuals that have been diagnosed with pre-diabetes, for example, to modify their diet and lifestyle in order to have the best chance in preventing the advancement of this disease.

Americans over 65 years of age tend to experience several chronic conditions. This applies to almost 70% of older individuals within this country. Given the prevalence of cancer, for instance, many adults will receive a diagnosis of some form of this disease. Prostate cancer in particular has been diagnosed in roughly one out of every nine men at some point during their lives. Early detection can make a significant impact for many men diagnosed with prostate cancer.

Thyroid disease is a concern within the United States as well. Currently, there are approximately 20 million individuals within this country that are living with some form of this disease. Given this, taking a thyroid disease test can assist with early detection. If it is determined that someone may have issues with their thyroid, then an early diagnosis can assist them with better addressing this condition.

Since you would like to learn more about the various types of preventive health screenings, you can schedule an appointment at one of the life scan wellness centers near you. At this time, you will be able to discuss your health concerns in detail, and the medical staff will provide you with recommendations. You may, for example, choose to have a one or two different types of screenings. A full body scan health check, however, may be recommended to determine your overall level of health.