"Good health is something that many of us take for granted until it is too late. The result is that many individuals still suffer from problems that could have been prevented.How can we maintain a good state of health?
Our bodies are highly complex biological machines that require regular care and maintenance regardless of age. A regular medical check-up is very effective at detecting and preventing future problems thus ensuring the best present and future health. Unlike cars which can be replaced, we only get one chance with our body and it has to last our entire lifetime!
Health Maintenance is for older people - I’m too young to need a medical check!
Whatever your age, there are many benefits of a health maintenance.
For older people, the benefits of a regular check up are obvious. A regular health maintenance exam allows for early identification of serious disease including cancers and heart disease. It is also an opportunity to prevent disease through modification of risk factors (smoking, diet, life style).
If you’re young, you may not see the value of this type of check up. However, a health maintenance examination is likely to be much more helpful than you expect. Many young adults run the risk of serious ill health through failure to get necessary immunizations. These include Tetanus, special vaccines such as Hepatitis A and B, and for young women, the new Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccine which protects against cervical cancer.
Travelers to tropical countries often omit to take malaria prophylaxis and may become seriously ill while abroad. Young people are more likely to put themselves at risk through participation in dangerous sports or due to high risk alcohol, drug or sexual habits – Pre-travel counseling gives the opportunity for education and advice regarding simple safety precautions.
Is the investment worth the cost?
Thanks to improved medical care, new vaccinations and new screening checks, most of us should live longer and healthier lives than our parents did. Fortunately an increasing number of organizations and individuals are realizing that active investment in maintaining a good state of health really pays back, both in the short and long term. In fact, many international health insurance companies include an annual Health Maintenance examination as a benefit that is fully covered.
Even if you don’t have an insurance or company that will pay for your Travel Consult or Health Maintenance exam, don’t miss this valuable opportunity. At FirstMed, we know that individuals who are actively responsible for their own health stay healthier. We hope that you will agree. See you soon!"
Written by Dr. Sue McGladdery
Medical Director
FirstMed Centers Kft.
Hattyúház, Hattyú u. 14.
H-1015 Budapest, Hungary
27.08.2008