“As a health care organization, we know and understand the benefits of an annual physical,” said Leah Glasgo, president of UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge.

“When you see your health care provider annually, you’re more likely to find serious health conditions early and treat them before they cause complications. We want our community to be well. This campaign is all about your health.”

Many individuals only address medical problems when they occur versus being proactive in their health care. Health care providers discuss with patients their risks and preventive measures they can take, along with cancer screenings to minimize serious health conditions.

Cancer screening recommendations can vary based on the patient’s health and family history, so it’s important for patients to ask their health care provider about what screenings are right for them.

Important preventive cancer screenings for adults include those for colorectal, lung, skin, prostate, breast and cervical cancers.

To kick off the campaign, UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge partnered with the city of Fort Dodge to install new bridge banners located on the Karl King Viaduct to promote the importance of annual physicals.

“This campaign came together after conversations on how we can share the importance of getting your annual physical,” said Glasgo. “We chose to partner with the city on this project because of the mutual goal of encouraging health and wellness in the community while providing a beautiful addition to a popular bridge.”

The bridge banners read, “Grow Strong. Live Healthy. Schedule Your Annual Exam.”

The Karl King Viaduct was chosen for the bridge banners because it’s a high traffic entry and exit point to town; therefore, reaching many visitors and community members. The bridge banners will act as a visual reminder for community members and visitors to schedule their annual physical while beautifying the town.

“The city of Fort Dodge is proud to partner with UnityPoint Health — Fort Dodge in their initiative to foster a healthier community,” said Ryan Maehl, assistant city manager. “By encouraging our residents to engage in regular health screenings and annual physicals, we are taking proactive steps toward enhancing the well-being of our community. Through visible reminders like the new banners on Karl King Viaduct, our hope is that individuals will be empowered to take charge of their health for a stronger and more vibrant Fort Dodge.”

Annual physicals are important for all ages and stages of life — from newborns to older adults. In fact, children younger than 2 years of age are recommended to have more than an annual visit to ensure they stay up to date on vaccinations, screenings and are meeting developmental milestones.

If you’d like to schedule an annual physical, visit www.unitypoint.org/find-a-service/primary-care to find a health care provider near you.