Preventive Health

Regular health exams and tests can help find problems before they start. They also can help find problems early, when your chances for treatment and cure are better. By getting the right health services, screenings, and treatments, you are taking steps that help your chances for living a longer, healthier life.

Some general health tips to keep in mind:

• If you are sexually active, practice safer sex, and get tested for sexually transmitted infections.  Also, take some time to understand the contraceptive options that are available so that you can prevent yourself and your partner from STI's and unplanned pregnancy.
• Limit your consumption of alcohol and other drugs
• If you smoke cigarettes or chew tobacco, try to quit or cut down
• Practice monthly testicular self-exams to detect early signs of testicular cancer
• Be proactive about managing stress
• Learn practical ways to improve the regularity and quality of your sleep
• Eat a healthy, balanced, and nutrient dense diet
• Maintain a healthy body weight
• Get regular check-ups

Annual medical exams for health adults are typically not necessary, however particular screenings are recommended. For men under 40 with no signs or symptoms of related health problems the following screenings are recommended:

• Testicular exam by a health care provider every 1-2 years (in addition to monthly TSE)
• Blood Pressure Screening every 2 years
• Blood work for Cholesterol every 5 years
• Any other specific areas of concern