re: Do you get an annual physical or wellness exam?

No. Haven't been to a doctor in about 5 or 6 years. No reason to go. I'm like my mom, no health concerns. She lived to be 94.

Adding: I did go to a walk in clinic earlier this year for the cold from hell.

I literally just finished my first one. My dad and wife have been on my case about getting one since I turned 40.

Doc said I was the epitome of perfect health and what all men should strive to be.

Yes. It identified high blood pressure when I was 35, cholesterol at 43. Don't forget colonoscopy. I had polyps at age 61. A good Dr. will start the dreaded finger wave at some point in time.

quote:

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I feel ok and I know my blood pressure is good.

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I can't tell you how many people I knew, mostly men, that have died before age 50 feeling good right up until it was too late. Most of them were from heart disease brought on by cholestrol. My father-in-law was the picture of health, an avid doorsman with a job that required much physical activity. He never showed any sign of a problem until he dropped dead at the doors of OLOL. He was 39.

recent study results have watered down the perceived value. They are good for opening dialog with physicians, but are not the catch-all some people think they are. That said, there are some standardized tests that do have value (i.e. mammograms, colonoscopies, etc.).

ETA: My first official one (outside of football) was when I was 33. Perfect blood numbers (111 LDL, 62 HDL, tri's in the 90s). Been a couple times since and very little change.

On the down side, I have diverticular disease and have to watch my diet. It does keep me straight with everything else though. This year has been diagnostic central with colonoscopies, CT scans, blood screens, urinalyses......ugh. The CTs were incredibly thorough and I had everything looked at.
Thank goodness for insurance. A LOT of money was spent.