20s
General Practioners
Assess alcohol use and be evaluated for signs of alcohol abuse or dependence. Practice safe sex to reduce the risk for sexually transmitted infections. Women 21 and older should undergo Pap testing to screen for cervical cancer. Consider the HPV vaccination for cancer prevention. Practice sun safety to help prevent skin cancer in later life: use sunscreen, wear sun-protective clothing, and avoid indoor tanning.
Dr. Rebecca Hogg and Dr. Kaitlin Saucier
Women’s Health
Sleep. Your body needs it. Especially if you are trying to maintain a healthy weight or plan to get pregnant in the coming years. Seven to nine hours a night is ideal. Don’t smoke; this includes vaping and Juuling. Make sure you are up-to-date on your vaccines and routine tests such as a Pap smear.
Dr. Joanna Younker
Men’s Health
Habits to avoid or drop in your 20s include smoking or chewing tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption. Depression and anxiety can start in our 20s and are important to have diagnosed and treated so they don’t fester and become worse over time. Establish a relationship with a primary care provider you like and trust. Get tested for HIV, and talk to your doctor about other sexually transmitted disease tests that may be needed.
Dr. Thomas Nittler
Eye Health
Most individuals who reach the age of 20 without yet needing glasses or contacts will likely continue to enjoy excellent vision indefinitely. Nearsightedness or the inability to see far away and astigmatism are common, though. Glasses, contacts, and laser vision correction surgery are all viable options for correcting blurry vision. Don’t sleep in those contacts, however.
Dr. James Luetkemeyer
Vein Health
Maintain a regular exercise routine. Walking at least 30 minutes daily has been shown to slow the progress of vein disease. Do not tan! Ultraviolet radiation from the sun or tanning beds weakens collagen and can accelerate the formation of spider veins.
Dr. Chandra Prasad
30s
Dermatology
Prior sun damage may be taking its toll. In the morning, underneath daily sunscreen, start applying a topical antioxidant with Vitamin C to fight free radicals and UV damage and to help prevent brown spots and signs of aging. Continue nightly retinol to prevent brown spots and wrinkles. Use an alpha hydroxy acid cleanser a few times a week to help with exfoliation.
Dr. Helen Tergin
Diet
Now that you’re cooking and eating delicious, wholesome foods, get your kids started on this healthy path, too. Introduce these nutritious and delicious foods early and often — they will quickly learn to love them! Limit sugary beverages, including soda and fruit juice, to avoid obesity and Type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Chris Link
Dental Care
In our 30s, life get busier. Be on the lookout for signs of gingivitis: puffy, red gums with bleeding. Don’t forget to brush twice a day for two minutes with fluoride toothpaste to help prevent tooth decay. Take a close look at the alignment of your teeth. Correct alignment can prevent gum recession, cracked teeth, and wear. Ask for a complimentary airway screening to ensure there are no issues that could be related to sleep disorders.
Dr. Nathalie Tungesvik
General Practioners
Develop an exercise routine that includes at least 30 minutes of activity five days a week, to reduce future risk of heart attack and stroke. Continue healthy eating habits; the more colorful your plate, the more likely you are to be getting essential vitamins and minerals and a variety of food groups. Discuss your risk for coronary heart disease with your primary care physician to determine when cholesterol testing is right for you. Get your annual flu shot.
Dr. Rebecca Hogg and Dr. Kaitlin Saucier
Vein Health
Keep your weight in check. Excess abdominal fat will accelerate the formation of varicose veins. If you are pregnant, wear maternity compression hose to decrease your leg pain and swelling as your baby grows. Seek care for your venous disease if you have swelling, aching, restlessness, pain, surface veins, fatigue, or heaviness in your legs.
Dr. Chandra Prasad
