Preventive health guidelines were developed to improve one’s health using things that prevent disease and detect it early. They are based on credible research in which the criteria have been studied extensively. The United States Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) is a leading resource for preventive health guidelines along with doctor specialty organizations like the American Academy of Family Physicians and American Academy of Pediatrics. There are so many that it can become confusing as to what you should do. Like one size fails to fit all so do the guidelines. How will you know what you need and when you need it?
Use your medical history as your guide in deciphering through different health organization guidelines. Though they may address the same thing, there will be similarities and differences. If you have a history of cancer, you may want to get a mammogram or colonoscopy more often. If there is a family history, you may want to get tests sooner than the guidelines suggest. Abnormal physical exam findings warrant testing regardless of guidelines.
Be sure to review guidelines from different organizations. This gives you a broader view of what you need. Look at the pros and cons as they fit you. Focus on those that concern you and your condition. Discuss them all with your doctors and healthcare providers to plan your guidelines. Your medical history is your guide to the guidelines right for you. Best health!
