How Often Do You REALLY Need To Get a Physical?

Annual checkups have been standard for decades, but recent research found that if you feel fine, they don’t necessarily change health outcomes. For example, one review showed that yearly doctor visits increased the delivery of preventive services—like colonoscopies—but they didn’t significantly lower the instance of life-threatening diseases or deaths. (Kick-start your new, healthy routine with Women’s Health’s 12-Week Total-Body Transformation!)

That said, even if you don’t have any medical conditions, a physical is an opportunity to check for issues you may not be aware of (like high cholesterol), assess risk factors like family history, and build a relationship with your doctor. Plus, recent screening tests (like skin cancer checks) may also be reviewed.