1. Eat healthier and start moving.
Skip the fried and fatty foods, and strive for at least half an hour of exercise daily. Eating right and keeping active are the health gifts that keep on giving: If you get into these habits now, the benefits will last a lifetime.
2. Work on your relationship -- with your doctor, that is.
People often delay getting a primary care doctor once they're past having a pediatrician. But there are things to ask your doctor now. For example:
- What can you do to keep your body and heart strong?
- How can you best prevent STDs?
3. Know your family health history.
Does heart disease run in your family? How about diabetes? These are important questions to ask your parents and grandparents while you still can. Experts recommend constructing a family medical history tree.
4. Don't forget key screening tests.
There are no standard screening guidelines for testicular cancer. To learn how to do a self-exam, go to the Testicular Cancer Resource Center. Also, talk to your doctor about cholesterol, hypertension, and diabetes screening. It's never too early to start protecting your heart.
