As humans, many of us tend to ignore small issues until they become big ones. Check engine light on in the car? Well, it still runs and isn’t making noise, so it must be ok….until it’s not.

We can do the same thing with our health. Sometimes we put off going to the doctor until our health concerns are a big deal, either affecting our quality of life or even becoming life-threatening.

Did you know that most chronic conditions can be prevented? Conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, and heart disease can be prevented or controlled more easily by early detection.

How can you literally save your own life? By going ahead and scheduling that annual exam with your doctor EVERY year.

People who are young can benefit themselves by getting into the habit of going to the doctor yearly. Learning the best way to care for your health early can keep you feeling young longer.

By the time you are forty, it becomes even more important as cancer risks go up and screenings can be the difference between many more years of quality life or only months to live.

At forty, your doctor should begin to draw routine blood work to monitor markers for diabetes and high cholesterol. The majority of people who have these things caught early and make the necessary lifestyle changes never have to take prescription medications.

Taking care of yourself will save you in the long run financially as well. Serious health issues require many trips to doctors, specialists, medications, and hospital stays. This translates not only into medical bills, but missed work as well.

Do yourself (and your family) a favor and make a habit out of taking care of your health!