AMID the hustle and bustle of our careers, relationships and personal growth during our thirties, it’s easy to put our health on the back burner.
However, this is the decade when preventive health measures become increasingly crucial. Our bodies change, and our risk for specific health issues heightens. It’s time to shift our focus from solely reacting to health problems to proactively safeguarding our overall well-being.
Maintaining good health in your thirties isn’t about taking drastic measures; it’s about making sustainable lifestyle choices. Here’s how you can build a strong foundation for a healthy future.
HEALTHY LIFESTYLES Being physically active, eating a balanced diet and getting regular health check-ups are ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle. PHOTO FROM MSD
First, maintain physical activity. Staying physically active in your thirties is crucial for long-term health and well-being. While life often gets busier with career and family commitments, prioritizing exercise is an investment in your future self.
Second, adopt a balanced diet. Entering your thirties marks a pivotal phase where maintaining a balanced diet is paramount. A balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and healthy fats provides essential nutrients to support optimal health and mitigate these risks. It’s also high time to limit processed foods, sugary drinks, and excessive alcohol intake.
Third, schedule regular wellness check-ups. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear; have regular check-ups with your doctor to detect potential health issues early on. Advanced detection and prevention of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes and certain cancers are crucial for your long-term well-being.
By scheduling routine check-ups, you can establish a baseline for your health, identify potential risk factors and receive personalized guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Discuss with your health care provider all the necessary screenings and tests appropriate for your age and risk factors.
Fourth, prioritize vaccinations and health screenings. Vaccinations are not just for children; adults need routine vaccinations, too. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, for example, is recommended for men and women up to age 26. It’s a highly tolerated and effective way to protect yourself against certain types of HPV that may cause cervical cancer and other types of HPV-related cancers.
PREVENTIVE MEASURES Getting vaccinated is one of the safest ways to protect yourself from potential diseases. PHOTO FROM MSD
Cervical cancer is one of the only two preventable cancers out there. As such, getting the HPV vaccine is a good investment towards helping prevent cervical cancer.
It’s easier than ever to secure HPV vaccines as it is usually available in hospitals and clinics with obstetrics and gynecology departments. For office girlies on the go, the most convenient way to secure an HPV vaccine is through a local pharmacy near you.
Regular health screenings, on the other hand, are like a check-up for your body. They allow health care professionals to detect potential health issues early on, when they are often most treatable. Depending on your risk factors, health care providers may recommend early screenings for different types of cancer such as breast, cervical, colorectal, and skin cancer. In your thirties, early screenings for cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar levels are vital in identifying risk factors related to heart disease, stroke and diabetes. For women, regular health screenings may also include pap smears and breast exams.
Your thirties are a time of empowerment and self-discovery. Take charge of your health by making informed decisions and prioritizing preventive measures. Talk to your health care provider about routine vaccinations, health screenings, and other preventive health strategies. Even in your thirties, it’s never too late to start investing in a healthier and happier you.
This is an educational message provided by MSD Philippines. To learn more about how you can protect yourself from HPV and cervical cancer, visit https://guardagainsthpv.ph/ today.
