Regular medical checkups are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle. Studies show that people who have regular annual checkups are diagnosed with advanced cancer less often. This is very likely due to the more frequent use of cancer screening.
Screening for cancer and chronic diseases can be primary or secondary. People who have regular check-ups are more likely to be referred for these tests by their healthcare provider. They are also more likely to follow their advice and actually undergo testing.
Regular medical check-ups are also a major tool for primary and secondary prevention of disease. Through diet, lifestyle, and good habits, healthcare providers aim to reduce chronic disease and cancer. This is primary prevention. Smoking cessation, moderation of alcohol intake, regular exercise, and a balanced diet are key.
Secondary prevention means preventing an already diagnosed condition from coming back or getting worse.
Health care providers will screen people for risks of cancer and chronic disease. People who are found to be at risk for either will be advised to modify their lifestyle or avoid risky habits. If they are overweight, health care providers advise weight loss. If they smoke or drink too much, they are advised to stop. If their lifestyle is sedentary, they are told to exercise regularly.
One can argue that people who undergo regular annual physical exams are more health conscious. They already live healthy lifestyles. This may explain the lower advanced cancer rates they have. But, is living a healthy lifestyle the cause of regular medical check-ups, or are regular medical check ups the cause of a healthy lifestyle?
It does not matter which argument is correct. Annual regular medical checkups lead to a lower incidence of advanced cancer. They can also prevent the onset of disease. No healthy lifestyle is complete without regular annual medical checkups.