Preventative Health Care

Preventive exams and tests are crucial for early detection and prevention of diseases. Here are some commonly recommended screenings and tests that can help prevent or detect various health conditions early:

 

Cancer Screenings

Mammogram: Detects breast cancer in women, typically recommended annually or biennially for women aged 40-74.

Pap Smear and HPV Test: Screens for cervical cancer. Pap smears are recommended every 3 years for women aged 21-65.

Colonoscopy: Screens for colorectal cancer, usually recommended every 10 years starting at age 45.

Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) Test: Measures PSA levels to screen for prostate cancer, generally recommended for men starting at age 50, or earlier for those at higher risk.

Low-Dose CT Scan: Recommended annually for heavy smokers or former smokers aged 55-80 to detect lung cancer.

 

Cardiovascular Health

Blood Pressure Screening: Regular monitoring starting at age 18 to detect hypertension.

Cholesterol Test: Lipid profile tests every 4-6 years starting at age 20 to detect high cholesterol.

Blood Glucose Test: Screening for diabetes, typically recommended starting at age 45 and repeated every 3 years, or earlier/more frequently for those at higher risk.

 

Bone Health

Bone Density Test (DEXA Scan): Recommended for women aged 65 and older, and men aged 70 and older, to screen for osteoporosis.

Infectious Diseases

HIV Test: Recommended for everyone aged 15-65 at least once, with more frequent testing for those at higher risk.

Hepatitis C Test: One-time test for individuals born between 1945 and 1965, and others at risk.

Sexually Transmitted Infection (STI) Screenings: Regular screenings for sexually active individuals, particularly those with multiple partners.

 

Eye and Ear Health

Eye Exam: Regular exams to detect vision problems, glaucoma, and other eye conditions. Frequency depends on age and risk factors.

Hearing Test: Regular screenings for adults, especially those aged 60 and older.

 

Mental Health

Depression Screening: Regular screenings for adults, particularly those with a history of depression or other mental health conditions.

General Health

Body Mass Index (BMI) Measurement: Regularly check BMI to assess and manage weight.

Skin Exam: Annual skin checks to detect skin cancer, particularly for individuals at higher risk.

 

Vaccinations

Influenza Vaccine: Annual vaccination to prevent the flu.

Tetanus, Diphtheria, Pertussis (Tdap) Vaccine: Booster every 10 years.

Pneumococcal Vaccine: Recommended for adults aged 65 and older, and younger individuals with certain health conditions.

Shingles Vaccine: Recommended for adults aged 50 and older.