Rethinking our annual physicals ...  Why rethink? There is no scientific evidence that giving people an annual check-up actually prevents more disease, and saves more lives.  Doing the same screening tests every year, on everybody, often means over-testing low risk people and under-testing those at higher risk of certain diseases. 

Blanket screening of all patients every year, regardless of whether they have symptoms or risk factors, is not scientifically proven to be helpful. Of course, if symptoms are present, that is another story - you must talk to your doctor. 

The solution: Customized care. Instead of running the same tests on everybody every year, we recommend moving to a Periodic Health Review and more focused testing that takes into account your unique risk factors, age, lifestyle and so on. 

What's the best approach for you? It's not about more testing, but rather maintaining a good relationship with your doctor. Having open conversations, partnering around prevention, and trying to make positive changes are critical to making the most of preventive visits with your family doctor. 

To learn more about choosing wisely and prevention through primary care, click HERE.

Dr. Rabia Khan
Lead Physician

Colorectal cancer screening increases the chance of finding cancer early and can improve treatment results. When colorectal cancer is caught early, 9 out of 10 people will be cured. If you have colorectal cancer and don’t get tested, you may miss the chance for early and more effective treatment.

Screening means testing someone who is not experiencing any symptoms. The best screening method for you depends on whether you are at average risk or increased risk of getting colorectal cancer.

For more information, visit Cancer Care Ontario by clicking HERE.

Even with no symptoms and when you generally feel fine, mammograms can find breast cancers when they are small, less likely to have spread, and are more likely to be treated successfully. Women ages 50 to 74 have a lower risk of dying from breast cancer when they are screened regularly with mammograms. 

For more information, visit Cancer Care Ontario by clicking HERE.

The Ontario Cervical Screening Program recommends that women who are or have been sexually active have a Pap test every 3 years starting at age 21. Regular screening should continue until at least age 70 or when advised by a doctor or nurse practitioner to stop.

A Pap test is a simple screening test that can detect cell changes in the cervix that may lead to cancer before women feel any symptoms.  Call your family physician to make this important appointment. 

For more information, visit Cancer Care Ontario by clicking HERE.

Video

Mike Evans video "Should you get the HPV Vaccine?" click HERE