People who get annual exams tend to worry less about their health. A review of 21 studies reveals this interesting tidbit, along with another nugget that's worth mentioning: People who have regular physicals are more likely to get screening tests, such as cholesterol checks, Pap smears, and mammograms.

If you're not getting regular check-ups, it may be because current treatment guidelines don't recommend them for people without symptoms of illness. Many doctors don't agree, though. Either do I. There are just too many conditions that progress without symptoms. Once they appear, it may be too late. Now I'm not promising that an annual visit with your doc will reveal every possible problem that may be lurking in your body. But it will keep you in the health loop, allow you to ask your medical-inspired questions, and prompt the professionals to screen you as appropriate.

My unsolicited advice on this topic: Schedule your own annual exam, get your screenings, and put your worries to rest.