September 4th, 2008 
Von by Tyrone M. Reyes, M.D.
The single biggest killer of adults over 65 is chronic disease. Heart disease, cancer, and stroke account for nearly two-thirds of all deaths among people, aged 65 and older. The real tragedy is that many of these diseases are preventable with lifestyle changes and careful screening. Too many older Filipinos aren’t getting screened, though — even those who can afford it. It is probably safe to say that fewer than one in 10 seniors get all of their recommended screenings and immunizations.
“People are often afraid of having some of these tests or get complacent when their results have been okay in the past,” says Audrey Chun, MD, medical director of the Coffey Geriatrics practice at the Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York. “But these tests can save your life. Catching high blood pressure, glucose, and cholesterol early can prevent diseases like heart attack and stroke. Detecting cancer earlier means a better likelihood of a cure.”
Here are simple tests you absolutely need on a regular basis: (more…)
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