Local Doctor Stresses The Importance Of Routine Health Screenings

Preventive health screenings remain one of the most effective ways to detect serious medical conditions before they become life-threatening, according to Dr. Travis Jones, an internal medicine physician at Intermountain Health Cedar City Hospital.

During an interview on the Big Picture Morning Show on KSUB radio, Jones emphasized that prevention and early detection often make the difference between a manageable condition and a major health crisis.

Dr. Travis Jones in studio - Dr. T / Canva Design

“It's much easier to prevent a fire than letting something spread and get out of control,” Jones said, comparing preventive medicine to wildfire prevention. He noted that while healthy habits such as getting adequate sleep, eating a nutritious diet, avoiding tobacco, limiting alcohol consumption and maintaining an active lifestyle can reduce health risks, some illnesses can develop without warning.

Colon Cancer Screening Should Start At Age 45

Because of that, Jones stressed the importance of routine screenings. Among the most important is colon cancer screening, which is now generally recommended beginning at age 45. While many people remain apprehensive about colonoscopies, Jones said the procedure itself is typically quick and comfortable, with the preparation the day before often considered the most challenging part.

Jones also highlighted the importance of annual mammograms for women beginning around age 40. Breast cancer remains one of the most common cancers among women, and regular screening can help identify problems early when treatment is often more effective.

National Cancer Institute via Unsplash

Another often-overlooked screening is the bone density scan, or DEXA scan, which helps identify osteoporosis before it leads to fractures and other complications. Jones said osteoporosis frequently develops without obvious symptoms until a serious injury occurs.

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For men, prostate cancer screening remains an important preventive tool. Jones explained that modern screening is generally performed through a blood test known as a PSA, or prostate-specific antigen test. Elevated results do not necessarily indicate cancer, but can signal the need for additional evaluation.

Beyond cancer screenings, Jones encouraged people to monitor cardiovascular health through routine cholesterol and blood pressure screenings. He noted that heart disease prevention remains a critical component of long-term health.

Chang Duong via Unsplash

The discussion also highlighted opportunities for residents to access screenings locally. Intermountain Health Cedar City Hospital Communications Manager Rachelle Hughes noted that a community health fair was scheduled at Southwest Technical College on Wednesday June 24^th, in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce, Levitt Group and Intermountain Health. The event included biometric screenings and mammography services. Hughes added that Intermountain Health also plans to host its annual hospital health fair in the fall.

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Jones encouraged residents to work closely with their primary care providers to determine which screenings are appropriate based on age, family history and individual risk factors.

Listen to the entire interview with Dr. Jones in the podcast below.