Do you go to the doctor for regular checkups?

Jumbie · Jul 10, 2008

I just finished lecturing both of my parents that they're way overdue for a routine checkup (plus they're now at an age where it's colonoscopy time!!) and I was just wondering how many of you go to the doctor routinely i.e. besides when you're actually sick.

I've actually recently been thinking about this for myself as well. I came to the realization that while I still think of myself as quite a young man at 28 years old that the reality is that I'm not a teenager any more and should also get some routine bloodwork done. Despite studying this crap for the last 3 years, it's never really occurred to me that I need to actually put it into practice for myself. I guess I still have that "I'm invincible" mentality because I hardly ever get sick and feel quite well yet I could possibly be walking around right now with ****** cholesterol, pre-hypertension and high blood sugar.

PS Thought about adding a poll. Don't really think it's necessary.

Mark from Plano · Jul 10, 2008

I'm 46 and haven't had a regular checkup since college. Probably should. Although I recently read that the theory on this is changing. Some recent studies (generic enough for ya?) have suggested that for most folks, getting regular medical advice when you go to the doctor for other ailments is as effective in detecting and preventing illness as scheduling annual checkups.

Myself, I've had various procedures done when I've been to the doc for specific complaints that give me indication that things are in pretty good shape.

For example, my blood pressure, blood sugar, etc. are fine. I've had skin cancer screenings and have no real chronic issues...so...

Still, I should probably go.

merkur · Jul 10, 2008

JayJay · Jul 10, 2008

Every year.

Jumbie · Jul 10, 2008

Originally Posted by merkur

Why would they need a colonoscopy? Wouldn't an FOBT be enough?

Cause it doesn't usually pick up polyps and also, in my limited experience, I haven't seen it done correctly. 2-3 stool samples collected from home are needed and usually the doctor only does a digital rectal exam yielding only 1.

Sensitivity and specificity are also low for a fecal occult blood test. Plus, you still need a flexible sigmoidoscopy periodically. You are correct that it's alternative screening method however, I'm recommending that my parents undergo a colonoscopy. Their insurance covers it so why not.

For low-risk individuals, you're good for 10 years with a colonoscopy.

Go Surface · Jul 10, 2008

Dentist yes, GP no.

edmorel · Jul 10, 2008

I go every 6 months as I am four years out of an operation.

rxcats · Jul 11, 2008

I have a "minor check-up" every 2-3 years. He checks my BP and does a little P&A. I have blood work done every year (or so) since I take Lipitor.

merkur · Jul 11, 2008

Jumbie · Jul 11, 2008

Originally Posted by merkur

Hmm. I thought everyone eventually got polyps.

I don't know if everyone gets them although they certainly are common but there are polyps and then there are polyps. Some types are precancerous lesions.

but routine colonsocopies just for polyps?

It's not just for polyps. It will pick up cancer as well. From my studies, it's the better test (although there is also the option of annual fecal occult blood tests). It does have its shortcomings in that it may not always visualize the entire colon but it has less shortcomings than a gFOBT.

As their first screening, I'd rather they get the better (in my opinion) test.

globetrotter · Jul 11, 2008

once a year GP, once a year (since 40) urologist.

brissyboy · Jul 12, 2008

yeh good to be precautious.

dusty · Jul 12, 2008

Never but I'm planning on starting soon.

Soph · Jul 12, 2008

Annually, best to catch things as early as possible.
2 of my college roomates are dead. One at 20 from a bad heart the other at 27 from cancer. You can never been too preventive or precautionary. It's a bit of a myth that somehow if you're young you shouldn't do this or that, life has taught me otherwise.

Thomas · Jul 12, 2008

No. Haven't seen a doctor since I saw a cardiologist before my first marathon. In-laws are on me about going, but they have this fear-based mentality that I just don't subscribe to. Once kids are in the house I may think otherwise, though.

Dentist - every 6 months religiously.

Do you go to the doctor for regular checkups?

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