Preventive Care in Mississauga
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. At Saldanha Health Centre, preventive medicine is at the core of Dr. Saldanha's practice. Regular health assessments, targeted screenings, and lifestyle counselling catch problems before they become serious — keeping you healthier for longer.
Annual Physical & Periodic Health Review
Dr. Saldanha conducts comprehensive periodic health visits (PHVs) for registered patients. These appointments go beyond a quick check — they are a structured review of your cardiovascular health, metabolic risk, cancer screening status, immunization record, mental wellbeing, and lifestyle factors.
Physical exams are OHIP-billed for Ontario residents. To book your annual physical, call (905) 890-2757.
Preventive Screenings
Blood Pressure
Hypertension screening and monitoring. High blood pressure is often asymptomatic — routine measurement is essential.
Cholesterol & Lipids
Fasting lipid panel to assess cardiovascular risk. Includes LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, and triglycerides.
Diabetes Screening
Fasting glucose and HbA1c for at-risk patients. Early detection of pre-diabetes enables lifestyle intervention before progression.
Colorectal Cancer
FIT (fecal immunochemical test) every 2 years from age 50–74, or colonoscopy referral based on family history or symptoms.
Cervical Cancer (Pap)
Pap smear every 3 years for patients aged 25–70 with a cervix. Detects pre-cancerous changes before they progress.
Breast Cancer
Referral to Ontario Breast Screening Program for mammography every 2 years from age 50 (or earlier if indicated by risk).
Prostate (PSA)
Prostate-specific antigen testing discussed as a shared decision for men aged 50+. Dr. Saldanha will review benefits and limitations.
Thyroid Function
TSH testing for patients with symptoms or risk factors for thyroid disease, including fatigue, weight changes, and family history.
BMI & Weight
Body mass index and waist circumference as part of metabolic risk assessment, with referrals to dietitian or weight management programs.
Chronic Disease Prevention & Lifestyle Counselling
Most chronic diseases are preventable or significantly modifiable through early intervention. Dr. Saldanha provides individualized counselling on:
- • Smoking cessation — pharmacotherapy options, NRT, and behavioural strategies
- • Weight management — dietary guidance, physical activity, and referral to dietitian or bariatric program where indicated
- • Cardiovascular risk reduction — Framingham risk assessment, statin therapy discussion, blood pressure targets
- • Diabetes prevention — lifestyle modification for pre-diabetic patients to delay or prevent Type 2 diabetes
- • Alcohol use — AUDIT screening and brief intervention for at-risk patients
Routine Blood Tests
Dr. Saldanha orders and reviews a comprehensive suite of laboratory investigations as part of preventive care. Common panels include:
- • Complete Blood Count (CBC) — red blood cells, white blood cells, hemoglobin, platelets
- • Metabolic panel — kidney function (creatinine, eGFR), liver enzymes, electrolytes
- • Fasting lipid panel — LDL, HDL, total cholesterol, triglycerides
- • HbA1c — average blood sugar control over 3 months, for diabetic and at-risk patients
- • TSH — thyroid-stimulating hormone to screen for hypo- and hyperthyroidism
- • Fasting glucose — direct diabetes screening
Results are reviewed by Dr. Saldanha and communicated to you directly, with follow-up appointments arranged when action is required.
Adult Immunizations
Influenza (Flu Shot)
Annual vaccination — updated each fall to match circulating strains. Recommended for all adults, especially those 65+, immunocompromised, or with chronic disease.
Shingles (Shingrix)
Two-dose series recommended for adults 50+. Highly effective at preventing shingles and post-herpetic neuralgia. Not OHIP-covered; may be covered by private insurance.
Pneumonia (Prevnar 20)
Recommended for adults 65+ and those with high-risk conditions. Protects against invasive pneumococcal disease.
RSV (Arexvy / Abrysvo)
Newer vaccine for adults 60+ to prevent RSV-related lower respiratory illness. Discuss eligibility with Dr. Saldanha.
Tdap
Tetanus, diphtheria, and pertussis (whooping cough) booster — recommended every 10 years. Especially important for adults in contact with infants.
Mental Health Screening & Referral
Preventive care extends to mental health. Dr. Saldanha screens for anxiety and depression using validated tools (PHQ-9, GAD-7) as part of periodic health visits. Where further support is needed, referrals are made to psychiatry, psychology, or community mental health programs. Early identification and intervention improves long-term outcomes significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I get a physical exam?
Ontario's Periodic Health Visit guidelines recommend an annual review for adults over 65, and every 1–3 years for adults aged 18–64 depending on risk factors. Dr. Saldanha will recommend a schedule based on your age, medical history, and individual risk profile. Patients with chronic conditions are typically seen more frequently.
What is included in an annual physical?
A comprehensive physical at Saldanha Health Centre typically includes blood pressure, heart rate, weight and BMI measurement, cardiovascular and respiratory examination, abdominal assessment, review of medications and lifestyle factors, age-appropriate cancer screening discussion, bloodwork orders, and immunization review. The exact scope depends on your age, sex, and health history.
Does OHIP cover preventive tests and annual physicals?
OHIP covers the physician consultation component of a periodic health visit. Some laboratory tests ordered during a physical are also covered. However, certain tests are uninsured under OHIP (e.g., some screening panels, executive health add-ons). Vaccines such as Shingrix and Prevnar are not OHIP-covered but may be covered by private insurance. Dr. Saldanha will clarify coverage at your visit.
What cancer screenings should I be getting?
Recommended screenings vary by age and sex. Ontario Cancer Screening guidelines currently recommend: colorectal cancer screening (FIT test every 2 years from age 50–74, or colonoscopy referral if indicated), cervical cancer screening (Pap smear every 3 years from ages 25–70), breast cancer screening via mammography (every 2 years from age 50), and lung cancer screening for eligible high-risk individuals. Prostate cancer screening (PSA) is a shared decision between patient and physician. Dr. Saldanha will ensure you are up to date on all applicable screenings.
Book Your Annual Physical
550 Matheson Blvd W, Unit 107, Mississauga, ON L5R 4B8
Call (905) 890-2757Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Screening recommendations may vary based on individual risk factors and clinical guidelines. Please consult Dr. Saldanha for personalized preventive care advice.