HEALTHIER YOU: Happy New Year, Happy New Life

BY DR. ANNETTE MAYES

No matter your age, the dawning of a new year means new opportunities to take control of your personal health. The best way to get there: initiating age-appropriate conversations with your doctor, and resolving to focus on preventative care in 2016.

When they go in for check-ups, young people between the ages of 13 and 18 are encouraged to have frank discussions with medical professionals about the following topics: changes in their bodies; risky sexual behaviors; and preventing unwanted pregnancy or sexually transmitted diseases through contraception and abstinence.

If you are 19 to 39 years of age, discussions should include contraception; sexual and reproductive health; genetic counseling; and preventing sexually-transmitted diseases.

People who are 40 to 64 years of age are advised to have the following discussions with doctors: family history of heart disease; personal risk factors for cardiovascular challenges; sexual problems or concerns; symptoms of menopause; and pelvic support.

And it is important for those 65 and older to address prevention of sexually transmitted diseases; the importance of physical activity and good nutrition; lifestyle and stress; breast health awareness; hormone therapy; menopausal symptoms; and urinary and fecal incontinence. There is nothing better for your health than open and honest conversations with your doctor and health care providers. By working together, you can ensure more than a happy new year — you can get on the road to a happy new life.

For additional information, contact the Las Vegas All Women’s Care offices at (702) 522-9640. Or visit us at 700 Shadow Lane No. 165 (1st floor) in Las Vegas.