Each year as many as 45 million Americans travel abroad, with about 20 million of them spending time in rural areas or developing countries, locations where the risks of contracting an illness are great. A study of travelers to developing countries and eastern Europe revealed that more than one third had some type of illness during their trip.

Diarrhea and the common cold were the most common illnesses. On a typical two-week trip, travelers "lost" an average of three days because of illness. Almost 20 percent of them remained ill after their return home, and 10 percent sought medical care for their illnesses.

Although infectious diarrhea and upper respiratory tract infections account for most travel-related morbidity, cardiovascular disease is the most common cause of mortality in travelers. A study of overseas fatalities among Americans revealed that cardiovascular disease was the cause of more than one half of the deaths; injuries accounted for almost one quarter of the deaths.

According to data from Condé Nast Traveler, each year 25,000 Americans are injured during travel abroad, and 750 Americans are killed in motor vehicle accidents abroad.

Our staff is knowledgeable in the field of travel medicine can assist individuals prepare for trips abroad by providing advice on ways to prevent or mitigate travel-related illnesses.

Starting with your first online visit as a subscriber, our staff is always eager to assist you with your travel preparation. Our travel physician (MD) who will review your medical history, travel plans, evaluate risks and to provide the most current medical, security and safety information for your destination.

The safety and well being of personnel is top priority for a responsible company. We value this principle and respond to it through our company philosophy and practice.

The broad range of services that we offer, allow us to directly address the many facets of a complete risk management plan. Given an itinerary, we will design a plan with prevention in mind, through a proactive approach to the safety process. With an approved plan in place, we then provide the highest levels of training to your personnel who could be involved in an emergency situation.

A large number of U.S. companies are sending their executives on business trip abroad or international assignments. It is essential to conduct pre-travel screening as well as post-travel screening. AdventureMD would design an effective post-screening program for individuals and companies.

Retreats and mini-camps are becoming common activities among corporations and businesses. We are able to design an effective and safe program for participants to avoid unnecessary medical emergencies.

Early retirement has prompted many seniors and even more senior people to pack a bag and head ‘off to see the world’ or to visit relatives overseas.

It is often said that age brings wisdom and it is true that sometimes age and style of travel can help you to avoid health risks but vaccinations are important at any age. Even if you have had vaccines previously, boosters may now be advisable. Influenza vaccine is a consideration for all senior travelers who might have a more severe illness. Remember that the ‘flu’ season in the northern hemisphere is November to March.

Here are a few points to consider when planning your dream trip:

· Lack of exercise in airports and on planes can result in venous thrombosis and possibly pulmonary embolism. This is what is sometimes called DVT or Deep Vein Thrombosis. Swollen ankles often result from long periods sitting in the cramped aircraft seating. Walk around as much as possible and keep exercising the feet and legs whilst seated. Plan stopovers in long haul trips.

· Adequate supplies of all regular medication should be carried with you. Familiar brands may not be available overseas. Allow enough for unexpected delays and always have a doctors letter detailing your current medical problems and reason for medications.

· Angina and breathlessness can be worse at high altitudes and sometimes in airplanes. Airlines can usually arranges additional oxygen if advance notice is given.

· Diabetes, urinary incontinence, chronic airway disease and many other ongoing medical conditions are not deterrents to travel but do. Make advance planning essential.

· Advancing age is often accompanied by a reduced capacity for exercise. Poor balance and reduced stability make falls more likely and there is a greater risk of accidents in strange surroundings. For these reasons, good walking shoes are a must.

· Hearing and sight impairment can cause confusion in unfamiliar situations – particularly busy airports with continual loudspeaker announcements.

· Hot climates can aggravate low blood pressure particularly in those on anti-hypertensive or anti-Parkinson Medications. In addition, sunburn is a greater risk when the skin is aging or thin and a SPF 30+ sunscreen should be used regularly.

· Senior people frequently have reduced stomach acidity, which can increase the risk of travelers diarrhea and gut infections. It is important to have a medical kit with appropriate medications for this and other commonly occurring health problems. Adventure MD can provide a range of medical kits and can help you select the on most suitable for you and your destination.

Finally, whatever your destination it is essential to have adequate travel health insurance – existing medical conditions including recent surgery must be disclosed in advance. For those with ongoing health problems it is important to remember that even with insurance, emergency care is only as good as the available medical facilities.