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A recent review in the Annals of Internal Medicine shows that many people go for their annual physical not because they feel it is necessary, but to ease their worries of the unknown. Makes sense to me. Still, there are other health checks you should undergo on a fairly regular basis, as they may not always present immediately symptoms.

Cholesterol. After turning 45, it's wise to have your cholesterol checked regularly. Younger people should have it checked if they smoke, have high blood pressure and/or diabetes, or a family of heart disease.

Thyroid test. Starting at around age 35, doctors recommend that patients have a blood test every five years or so to check the status of their thyroid function (unless, of course, symptoms of a thyroid issue occur earlier).

Colorectal cancer screening. Start periodic testing for this type of cancer at age 50, or earlier if you have a family history.

Feel free to add some of your own suggestions for health tests people should regularly have performed.

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