You have heard this a hundred times before, and it still stands true &mdash; early detection is the best prevention. 
Delaying a screening, or going without one, can cause significant challenges since many conditions can be more difficult to treat as they advance. Treatments become more complicated, hospital stays become more common, and the chance of life-altering complications skyrockets. 
Timing is everything, so be sure to prioritize the following important health visits and screenings for you and your loved ones, especially if you have been putting them off due to the pandemic:
Annual Checkups
Adults should schedule an annual physical with their primary care provider to evaluate their overall health and identify or monitor any chronic health conditions, including high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. 
&nbsp;
Vaccinations
For children and adults, updated vaccinations are critical. Adults may also be at risk for vaccine-preventable disease due to their age, job, lifestyle, travel, or health conditions. 
 
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends that everyone six months and older should get a flu vaccine each year. It&rsquo;s especially important that certain people get vaccinated either because they are at high risk of having serious flu-related complications, or because they live with or care for people who are at high risk for developing flu-related complications. If you have questions about whether or not you should get a flu vaccine, consult your healthcare provider.
&nbsp;
Cancer Screenings
Talk to your doctor about important routine cancer screenings during your next preventative health visit. A physician can schedule routine breast, colon, cervical, or prostate cancer screenings based on your age and family history. Regular screenings help with early detection, which can increase the chances of finding an effective treatment plan.
Arizona&rsquo;s 300-plus days of sometimes very intense sunshine should drive residents of all ages to get screened for skin cancer, which can often go undetected. Usually appearing as a new spot or morphing the appearance of an existing mole, melanoma is the most dangerous type of skin cancer and can spread to other parts of the body. 
 
 

 At the end of the day, if you have missed a screening, the most important step you can take is to reach out to your doctor and schedule a visit to get back on track. 
 
<a href="[BASEDOMAIN]/Client_Files/azblue/CM/System/Preventive Care List Flyer.pdf">Download this checklist for recommended preventive services for every age group. </a>

Recommended preventive screenings for every age group