5 Tips for Prevention

Prevention Is Still The Best Medicine: Rx for a Long, Healthy Life

1. Healthy Lifestyle: The combination of good genes, a healthy lifestyle and a bit of luck determine longevity. So although you cannot choose your parents, you can reach your maximum potential age by practicing healthy behaviors and attitudes. These include regular exercise, filling up your plate with more vegetables, consuming healthy fats like avocados, olive oil, and nuts, avoiding genetically modified foods, replacing sweetened drinks with plenty of water, limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding second-hand smoke.
2. Reduce Stress: Stress is a fact of daily life whether it's the pressures at work, problems at home, or a fight with a friend. Too much stress can increase the risk of serious health problems such as high blood pressure, heart disease, and obesity. You may feel easily irritable, have difficulty concentrating on simple tasks, and lose interest in things you used to enjoy. You can successfully manage stress by ensuring that you get adequate restful sleep (at least 7-8 hours a night), reducing tension with physical activity and meditation, talking with friends and family, and making time for leisure activities.
3. Stay Safe: Maximize your chances of living a long, healthy, and productive life by paying attention to safety and avoiding unnecessary risks. If you are driving, wear your seat-belt and avoid distractions like talking or texting on your phone. Reduce the chance of falls by wearing proper footwear and removing tripping hazards at home. Overexposure to sunlight can cause harmful effects on the skin so wear protective clothing and use sunscreen year-round.
4. Stay up to date on Vaccinations: Immunizations are not just for kids. Adults also need to make sure that they are staying up to date on their vaccines to protect themselves against preventable diseases. By simply getting your yearly flu shot you decrease your risk for hospitalization. Other important vaccines for adults include Tdap boosters, shingles, and pneumonia - given at different times based on the person’s age. If you are unsure about your vaccines, discuss it with your family doctor at your next office visit. 
5. Get Screening Exams: Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in America. Depending on your individual risk factors, your doctor may recommend specific screening tests. With so many recent advances in treatments, now is the best time to take advantage of early cancer detection. Through early detection, screening and diagnosis, we can significantly improve cancer patients’ chances of survival. Tell your doctor about any close family members who have had cancer and report any changes in your overall health. 

 To make an appointment call the Troy office at 248-816-1010 or the Sterling Heights office at 586-722-7240. You can also schedule an appointment online at www.drjaddou.com