Basic screenings for health

Q: My wife and I (we’re 34 and 36) have decided to take better care of our health and want to start with an all-around medical checkup. What should we ask the doctor to look at? — Lamar T., Phoenix

A: That’s a smart New Year’s resolution! Here’s a rundown of tests and screeening procedures that can complement a basic physical exam (cough!).

Blood tests: You can have a Metabolic Panel that looks for issues with kidneys, liver, blood chemistry and the immune system, a blood glucose test and a complete blood count, or CBC, which can detect vitamin and mineral deficiencies and more.

Heart checkups: Have a check of your blood pressure and LDL, apolipoprotein B, lipoprotein (a), triglycerides and hsCRP (to evaluate inflammation levels). You may have an electrocardiogram if valve or other problems are suspected or part of your family history.

Immunization review: Check on what inoculations you have had and then fill in the blanks!

Dental: If you’re not at risk for periodontal disease, go once a year. If you have gingivitis, smoke or have diabetes, go more often.

Vision: Folks with vision problems need an annual checkup. Symptom-free and under 40? The American Academy of Ophthalmology says to get an exam every five to 10 years. Ages 40 to 54 — every four years; 55 to 64 every three years; and 65-plus, every one to two years.

Men also need a PSA test. The American Cancer Society recommends that testing start at age 50 for those at average risk of prostate cancer; age 45 for men at high risk, and age 40 for those with more than one first-degree relative who had prostate cancer at an early age. A PSA level of less than 2.5 ng/mL? Retesting is every two years. Above that level? Yearly.

Women need annual gynecological exams (starting age 21 or earlier if sexually active) and mammograms (starting at age 40 to 50), and Pap smears at least every three years (with an HPV test).