Introduction
Prevention is the best medicine, a common refrain in doctors’ offices for decades. However, many find it challenging to take preventive actions, especially without knowing the latest recommendations. Here are some important preventive health tips that internists want their patients to know, sourced from the AMA’s What Doctors Wish Patients Knew series.
Medicare Annual Wellness Visits
If you’re 65 or older, it’s crucial to understand and utilize Medicare annual wellness visits. These visits are key in promoting health and well-being among Medicare patients. It’s important to differentiate these from traditional physical exams to make informed health care decisions. Learn more about this distinction from two AMA member physicians here.
Recognizing Stroke Symptoms
Every 40 seconds, someone in the U.S. experiences a stroke, a medical emergency requiring swift action. Stroke is preventable, and recognizing its symptoms can save lives. Two physicians discuss prevention and identification of stroke symptoms here.
Preventing Heart Disease
Heart disease claims a life every 34 seconds in the U.S. It also incurs significant financial costs. However, heart disease is not inevitable. Combining medical and lifestyle steps can reduce your risk. An internist and AMA vice president of cardiovascular health shares insights on prevention here.
Breast Cancer Awareness
Breast cancer is the second-most common cancer among women in the U.S., and men can also be affected. While prevention isn’t foolproof, certain steps can lower risk. An AMA senior physician adviser details these steps here.
Colon Cancer Screening
Colorectal cancer is a leading cause of cancer death in the U.S. Screening is now recommended starting at age 45. Despite this, many eligible patients remain unscreened. Learn more about the importance of early screening here.
Sodium Consumption
Excessive sodium intake is common and can lead to high blood pressure, heart disease, and stroke. Understanding sodium sources and reducing intake is vital. An internist explains how to manage sodium consumption here.
Vitamins and Supplements
While beneficial, vitamins and supplements can pose health risks. The FDA does not review these products for safety before marketing. With over 90,000 supplements available, choosing safe options is challenging. Two AMA members discuss what patients should know here.
Conclusion
Effective doctor-patient communication relies on shared knowledge. The AMA’s What Doctors Wish Patients Knew series covers various health topics to enhance understanding and health outcomes.
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