SoCal Flipbooks

Health Matters: Providence Holy Cross Medical Center | 9 A s men age, their health needs change. It's important to visit a health care provider regularly, even if you feel healthy. We at Providence Holy Cross Medical Center are committed to helping all our patients stay on top of their preventive regimes. Your primary care physician will screen for any medical issues, assess your risk for future medical problems, encourage a healthy lifestyle, update vaccinations and help you navigate any challenges with your overall fitness and well-being. SCREENINGS YOU NEED First things first: An annual physical is recommended for men of any age. That said, "some cancer screenings are not recommended for men over 75 years old, because of the use of sedation," says James Michail, MD, a geriatric specialist with Providence Holy Cross. "And some screening tests involve an informed decision based on the health of the individual and the risk factors involved." Here are guidelines for top health tests and appointments. Annual physical. A yearly exam is your first line of defense against getting sick and is extremely important. "First, if there is weight loss, it can be an early sign of malnutrition, cancer or depression. If there is weight gain, there may be thyroid issues. A blood test can determine any blood disorders as well," says Dr. Michail. "And physical therapy may be suggested to assist with balance and weak muscles that stem from a decline in exercise during the pandemic." At a physical exam, the following will be checked: • Blood pressure. If the top number is 130 or greater or the bottom number is 80 or greater, your physician will discuss ways to reduce your blood pressure. • Height, weight and body mass index (BMI) • Depression, anxiety and mental health • Cholesterol. This is checked every five years. If you have a high cholesterol level, diabetes, heart disease, kidney problems or certain other conditions, check yearly. • Skin check to determine if a referral to a dermatologist is necessary During your exam, your provider may ask you about: • Depression and anxiety • Diet and exercise • Alcohol and tobacco use • Safety, such as the use of seat belts and smoke detectors Skin exam. A yearly dermatologist check is encouraged. Precancerous lesions can be treated successfully through cryotherapy, a painless outpatient procedure. Eye exam. "A yearly eye exam is a great way to continue to do the things you love as you age, and to avoid injury," says Dr. Michail. "It is critical for those with diabetes." And eye exams also can lead to other diagnoses, such as blocked carotid arteries. (See "One Lucky Eye Exam," page 6.) Osteoporosis screening. "If you have fallen or have balance issues or osteoporosis runs in your family, it is time for an osteoporosis screening. Many seniors fall and break a bone or hip, and these fractures can be life-threatening," says Dr. Michail. "Treatment for osteoporosis is noninvasive and can bolster fragile bones." Dental exam. "Go to the dentist once or twice every year for an exam and cleaning. Your dentist will evaluate whether you have a need for more frequent visits," says Dr. Michail. Prostate cancer. The prostate- specific antigen (PSA) exam is a blood test "that is important for the older population," says Dr. Michail. The benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) exam is of the "utmost importance for seniors." Colon cancer. Most doctors do not recommend having a colonoscopy after age 75, because of the necessary sedation. "If, however, you have a family history of colon cancer or polyps, or a history of inflammatory bowel disease, alternative tests may be considered," says Dr. Michail. Lung cancer. "If you've not smoked in 15 years, your risk is very low. The screening test utilizes low-dose radiation, however, and may save your life—so it's very effective," says Dr. Michail. Have a yearly screening for lung cancer with low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) if: • you are 50 to 80 years old and • you have a 20-pack-year smoking history and • you currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years To schedule a screening or to find a primary care physician near you, call 844-987-0486. Dr. James Michail

• Cover