A physical examination, also known simply as a physical, is a process in which the physician examines organ systems and other parts of the patient's body. As the standard tool used to diagnose diseases and monitor health, it represents the cornerstone of preventive medicine. It is far better to prevent a disease than to treat it, and better to treat it early before it worsens.

More specifically, a cardiovascular examination targets the heart and its major vessels. This exam may include a cholesterol test, blood pressure reading, electrocardiogram (EKG) and other testing.

Guidelines from medical associations call for adults to begin cardiovascular screenings starting at age 20 and for high-risk children to have cholesterol tests as early as age 2. Screening people at regular intervals can help physicians detect cerebrovascular disease and cardiovascular disease before the presence of symptoms. Early detection allows for treatment that may prevent a stroke, heart attack or other major health event.