On the other hand, weight loss can be a consequence of infection or cancer. Loss of height may indicate osteoporosis, while weight gain can mean fluid retention but can also indicate heart, liver, or kidney disease. High blood pressure is usually a silent disease and, if left untreated, may lead to issues with heart and kidney disease. Routine annual physicals should always include height and weight assessments, blood pressure readings, and temperature measurements as a way to monitor patients over time, but also to hint at impending disease states.
Generally, all patients should be screened annually for heart disease and cancer.
