Take PRIDE+ in your health

Take PRIDE+ in your heart health

Your heart is the beat of your life, protect it by getting your annual wellness exam.

Annual exams are not just routine check-ups—they are a crucial step in understanding and managing your cardiovascular well-being. By scheduling these exams, you take control of your heart health and empower yourself with knowledge. Your healthcare provider will review your medical history, including any existing conditions, family history of heart disease, lifestyle factors, and risk factors such as smoking, high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol. At these exams, blood draws will also measure your cholesterol levels, triglycerides, and other lipid profiles to assess your risk for heart disease.

Annual screenings available to help monitor your heart health:

• Blood Pressure Measurement: High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for heart disease. Regular blood pressure checks help monitor your cardiovascular health. Normal blood pressure is typically around 120/80 mmHg.
• Cholesterol Level Test: A blood test can measure your cholesterol levels, including LDL (bad cholesterol), HDL (good cholesterol), and triglycerides. Elevated levels of LDL and triglycerides, as well as low levels of HDL, can contribute to heart disease.
• Body Mass Index (BMI) Calculation: BMI is a measure of body fat based on your weight and height. An elevated BMI indicates excess weight, which can strain the heart and increase the risk of heart disease.

Early detection of potential issues can lead to effective interventions and a vibrant, healthy life. Remember, self-care is a gift you give yourself. 

Take PRIDE+ in your gut health

Listening to your gut isn’t just for making good decisions, it’s the key to understanding your health. Did you know that a simple procedure like a colonoscopy can be a lifesaver? Take pride in your gut health and embrace the power of early detection.

At your annual wellness exam, your primary care provider will review your medical history, including any previous digestive issues, surgeries, or chronic conditions that may impact your digestive health. Your primary care provider may also listen to your abdomen with a stethoscope to identify any abnormalities or signs of digestive issues.

Colonoscopies are a vital tool in preventing and detecting colorectal cancer, one of the most common and treatable cancers when caught early. By scheduling regular screenings, starting at the recommended age of 45 for most individuals, you take a proactive step towards protecting your well-being.

Through colonoscopies, doctors can identify and remove polyps before they become cancerous. By staying on top of your screenings, you give yourself the best chance of a healthy, vibrant future. 

Take PRIDE+ in your breast health

Celebrate your strength and prioritize your breast health by performing self-breast exams and by scheduling your annual mammogram. Mammograms are not just routine screenings; they are a powerful tool in early detection and saving lives.

Learn how to perform a self-breast exam with Memorial Oncologist Dr. Olivia Hightower:

Starting at the age of 40, regular mammograms become a crucial part of the wellness journey. By scheduling these screenings, you take control of your breast health and empower yourself with knowledge. Early detection of breast cancer can lead to more effective treatment options and higher chances of a full recovery.

Remember, self-care is not selfish—it’s essential! Embrace the importance of mammograms and overcome any fears or hesitations. 

Take PRIDE+ in your prostate health

Prioritize your well-being by being proactive with your healthcare. Prostate exams are not just for later years—they are an essential part of your overall health journey.

Starting at the age of 50, regular prostate exams become a vital tool in detecting and treating prostate cancer, one of the most common cancers among men. By scheduling these screenings, you take control of your health and empower yourself with knowledge. Early detection can lead to more effective treatment options and better outcomes.

In between screenings, self-testicular exams will help you detect any changes or abnormalities, such as lumps or swelling, which could be signs of testicular cancer.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform a self-testicular exam:

1. Choose the right time: It’s best to perform the exam after a warm shower or bath when the scrotal skin is relaxed.
2. Stand in front of a mirror and visually inspect the scrotum: Look for any swelling, redness, or changes in the skin texture.
3. Support the testicle: Hold your scrotum in the palm of your hand, using both hands if necessary. Allow the testicle to rest on your fingers.
4. Examine each testicle: Roll the testicle gently between your thumb and fingers to feel for any abnormal lumps, swelling, or changes in size or shape. You should examine each testicle individually.
5. Note the epididymis: Behind each testicle, you’ll feel a soft, tubular structure called the epididymis. It’s a normal part of the anatomy and should not be mistaken for an abnormal lump.
6. Check for sensation or pain: Pay attention to any pain, discomfort, or sensitivity during the exam. It’s common to feel a slight sensitivity, but any severe or persistent pain should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.
7. Repeat on the other testicle: Perform the same steps on the other testicle.

It’s normal for one testicle to be slightly larger than the other, and the epididymis may feel slightly lumpy or bumpy. However, if you notice any new or unusual lumps, swelling, changes in size or shape, or other concerns, it’s important to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation. They can determine whether further testing or examination is necessary.

Performing regular self-testicular exams can help you become familiar with what is normal for your body. However, it’s important to note that self-exams are not a substitute for regular medical check-ups and screenings performed by your primary care provider.

Take PRIDE+ in your sexual health

Your sexual health is vital to your overall well-being, and it deserves your attention. Prioritize caring for and monitoring your sexual health. Here’s how:

1. Seek Professional Care: Schedule regular visits with a healthcare professional specializing in sexual health. They can provide comprehensive care, offer guidance on safe practices, and address your concerns. Open and honest communication during these appointments is key.

2. Get Screened for STIs: Regular testing for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) is crucial. Your healthcare provider can recommend appropriate tests based on your sexual activity and risk factors. Early detection and treatment are vital, even if symptoms aren’t present.

3. Practice Safe Sex: Use barrier methods like condoms to reduce the risk of STIs and unintended pregnancies. Open communication about sexual health with partners is essential, especially when engaging in multiple sexual relationships.

Investing time and effort in a healthier you allows you to live life to the fullest without uncertainty. Prioritizing your sexual health through regular care, screenings, and safe practices is an empowering act of self-care and personal responsibility.

Take PRIDE+ in your health at every age

Age 18-30:

• General Check-up: Establish a relationship with a primary care provider for routine check-ups, discussions about medical history, and vaccinations.
• Blood Pressure: Get your blood pressure checked at least once every two years or more frequently if you have risk factors.
• Cholesterol: Begin cholesterol screening between ages 20-25 if at increased risk (e.g., obesity, family history of heart disease).
• Sexual Health: Discuss safe sex practices, STI testing, and contraception methods with a healthcare professional.

Age 30-40:

• General Check-up: Continue routine check-ups with your primary care provider.
• Blood Pressure: Monitor blood pressure regularly to ensure it stays within a healthy range.
• Cholesterol: Repeat cholesterol screening every five years or more frequently if advised by your healthcare provider.
• Diabetes: Consider screening for type 2 diabetes every three years, especially if you have risk factors like obesity or a family history.
• Cancer Screenings: Discuss with your healthcare provider whether you need screenings for colorectal cancer, prostate cancer (for assigned male at birth individuals), breast cancer (for assigned female at birth individuals), or cervical cancer (for assigned female at birth individuals).

Age 40-50:

• General Check-up: Continue routine check-ups, addressing any specific health concerns or questions.
• Blood Pressure: Monitor blood pressure at regular intervals.
• Cholesterol: Regular cholesterol screenings remain important.
• Diabetes: Consider diabetes screening every three years or as advised.
• Cancer Screenings: Discuss with your healthcare provider whether you need screenings for colorectal cancer, prostate cancer (for assigned male at birth individuals), breast cancer (for assigned female at birth individuals), or cervical cancer (for assigned female at birth individuals).
• Mammograms: For assigned female at birth individuals, mammograms may be recommended starting at age 40 or earlier based on risk factors and discussions with a healthcare provider.

Age 50-65:

• General Check-up: Continue routine check-ups, discussing age-specific health concerns.
• Blood Pressure: Monitor blood pressure regularly.
• Cholesterol: Regular cholesterol screenings continue to be important.
• Diabetes: Consider diabetes screening regularly.
• Cancer Screenings: Discuss with your healthcare provider whether you need screenings for colorectal cancer, prostate cancer (for assigned male at birth individuals), breast cancer (for assigned female at birth individuals), or cervical cancer (for assigned female at birth individuals).
• Mammograms: Mammograms are generally recommended every one to two years for assigned female at birth individuals, starting at age 50 or earlier based on risk factors and discussions with a healthcare provider.
• Colonoscopies: Screening for colorectal cancer through colonoscopy or other recommended methods is typically recommended starting at age 50 and repeated at intervals determined by your healthcare provider.

Age 65+:

• General Check-up: Continue routine check-ups, discussing age-specific health concerns.
• Blood Pressure: Monitor blood pressure regularly.
• Cholesterol: Regular cholesterol screenings continue to be important.
• Diabetes: Consider diabetes screening regularly.
• Cancer Screenings: Discuss with your healthcare provider whether you need screenings for colorectal cancer, prostate cancer (for assigned male at birth individuals), breast cancer (for assigned female at birth individuals), or cervical cancer (for assigned female at birth individuals).
• Mammograms: Mammograms are generally recommended every one