Why Regular Wellness Checkups Are Essential for Early Disease Detection

When did you last visit your doctor—was it last month, last year, or perhaps even a decade ago? Routine wellness checkups play a vital role in maintaining your health, particularly through regular screenings that can detect diseases like cancer early, before they progress.

However, the 2024 Aflac Wellness Matters Survey reveals that 60% of Americans have skipped essential health screenings. Notably, individuals diagnosed with cancer were more likely to have avoided these screenings compared to those without a diagnosis, highlighting the critical nature of regular checkups. Among cancer patients, 56% discovered their condition through routine screenings or exams. 

We spoke to Aflac employees about their preventive health practices, and many shared experiences illustrating how regular wellness visits and health advocacy led to early detection and treatment of conditions. 

Kenna Cameron, a sales representative, recounted, “During my wellness dermatology exam, a small melanoma was found on my face. Fortunately, they were able to quickly perform Mohs surgery to remove it. I always promote the importance of wellness exams at both the dermatologist and your family doctor!” 

Dean Holmes, a union market executive, followed his physician's advice for lifestyle changes that significantly improved his health. Check out Dean’s video for more details. 

Stacey Warren, a Salesforce architect in Information Technology, shared her experience: “In my mid-20s, during my annual checkup, my primary care physician noticed a mole on my abdomen that seemed unusual and removed it. It looked fine to me, but days later, I was informed it was melanoma. Thankfully, we caught it early, and a larger excision was all that was needed. It's been over 20 years without complications. This taught me the value of sunscreen, which I now apply daily. I can't imagine where I'd be if I hadn’t had it removed.” 

Jon Sullivan, the director of Corporate Communications, discovered a concerning growth during a routine screening that could have been serious if left unchecked. Hear his story in the video above. 

Nicki Bartley, manager of Data Governance, shared, “I delayed my routine skin cancer screening longer than I should have, resulting in several spots needing treatment. What started as a visit for two spots on my back revealed six others that required care. Freezing off a spot isn’t too painful, but the subsequent burn and scrape left me with a painful wound to care for. The scar from the surgery isn’t easy either. I wish more people considered skin cancer screenings, especially after spending years in the sun. I now apply sunscreen religiously, having learned the importance of early detection and preventive care.” 

Ashley Dusenbury, senior manager of Corporate Communications, also had a full-body skin cancer screening that led to the early detection of basal cell skin cancer. Watch her video to learn more about her story. 

Life can be fast-paced, but preventive care is crucial. Take charge of your health by scheduling your wellness appointments, and encourage your loved ones to do the same. 

Click here to know more about the 2024 Wellness Matters survey and to find tips on how to take charge of your own health and encourage others to prioritize theirs.