A study from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows nearly 20% of adults do not see a doctor annually regarding their own health and sometimes skip visits for many years, especially if they feel healthy.

Aside from being able to detect health issues, identify precursors to health problems or find early-stage issues, there are several reasons why people should schedule an appointment.

One is to know information such as blood pressure numbers. That reading should be at or under 120 over 80. Doctors say untreated high blood pressure can harm blood vessels and can lead to a heart attack, stroke and damage to one's brain, kidney and eyes.

Another reason to visit a doctor is so they can determine how much oxygen is one's blood using a pulse oximeter. Poor blood oxygen is a sign of heart or lung issues. An oximeter is also used in hospitals to check on patients struggling with vital organ functions.

Once an appointment is made, doctors suggest people come prepared with results from prior tests or lab work and bring a list of medications or supplements they are currently taking.