Chronic diseases, such as obesity, cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and diabetes, are the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the United States. These are commonly caused by risky behaviors, such as smoking, tobacco and alcohol use, poor diet quality, and physical inactivity.
Preventive medicine is a type of healthcare focused on identifying and addressing risk factors early on before the onset of chronic diseases or in the early stages of chronic diseases to slow down their progression. It prevents and manages chronic health conditions in numerous ways.
Here are some key strategies for managing and preventing chronic diseases through preventive medicine.
Regular Health Screening
As a part of preventive care, regular health screenings play a crucial role in managing chronic diseases. Regular health screening tests not only detect the early signs of chronic health conditions before they progress to more advanced stages but also monitor the progression of the conditions and assess the effectiveness of the treatment.
For instance, regular health screening tests, such as lipid panel tests, blood glucose tests, and blood pressure measurements, allow healthcare professionals to keep their health numbers under control. Wearable devices have made it easier for concierge medicine doctors to monitor vital signs, such as blood pressure, heart rate, and blood glucose level, in patients with chronic health conditions like cardiovascular diseases, hypertension, and diabetes.
These devices allow concierge medicine providers to assess the progression of the disease, adjust the treatment plan according to the disease stage, and prevent complications of diseases from occurring in the first place. What’s more, wearable fitness trackers can also monitor the activity level, sleep patterns, and calories burned by individuals at high risk for chronic diseases or suffering from chronic diseases.
Patient Education
Patients who know all about their chronic health conditions are more likely to understand the importance of following prescribed medications, treatments, and lifestyle modifications, and they are more likely to comply with their doctor’s recommendations leading to better health outcomes.
That’s why patient education is a vital aspect of preventative medicine. It involves providing patients with all the information and knowledge about their chronic health conditions, treatment options, and strategies to manage their health condition and well-being effectively.
Patient education empowers patients to actively manage their health and well-being, make informed decisions about their health and well-being, and participate in shared decision-making with concierge medicine doctors.
Lifestyle Adjustments
Lifestyle adjustment is a key component of preventive medicine that can help manage chronic health conditions. It refers to positive changes in your daily habits, behaviors, and choices to promote better health and well-being.
As mentioned above, various risky behaviors can contribute to chronic health conditions. Lifestyle adjustments often involve eliminating or reducing harmful habits and risky behaviors and adopting healthy practices. Some beneficial lifestyle adjustments that can help manage chronic health conditions are as follows:
- Eat a balanced and nutritious diet rich in various fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats.
- Engage in regular exercise to maintain a healthy weight and reduce the risk of chronic diseases or keep them under control.
- Practice stress reduction techniques like meditation, mindfulness, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and relaxing hobbies.
- Getting enough sleep, as inadequate sleep can deteriorate your health.
- Quit smoking and avoid the use of tobacco products.
Preventive Medicine Services in Manhattan
If you are living in Manhattan and are in search of high-quality concierge medicine services, contact our board-certified and fellowship-trained physician Dr. Sindwani. Our concierge medicine doctor and her team are proud to offer preventive medicine services in addition to primary healthcare services to men and women in New York.
If you are interested in getting ahead of your preventive care, schedule a meet-and-greet session with Dr. Sindwani today by calling (646) 820-7101 or filling out our convenient online appointment request form.