What You Need To Know About Preventive Health Screenings

When asked, most of us will say being in good health is important. Even though we mean it, life can often prevent us from being as proactive as we should be. It is sometimes easier to put off a doctor’s appointment or ignore mild symptoms when you are busy. But the last thing anyone wants is a serious medical diagnosis, especially one that could have been prevented or caught early. 

According to a report from the Commonwealth Fund, the U.S. has the highest rates of preventable deaths for people under 75. With maternal mortality rates rising and women being more likely to skip or delay needed medical care, it is more important than ever for women to prioritize preventive health screenings. 

To help you get started, here is a breakdown of preventive care and five screenings every woman should schedule regularly.

Preventive health care is just that: medical care meant to detect or prevent serious diseases before they become significant problems. A smaller health problem is generally easier to solve and usually does not require invasive procedures or harsh treatments. Being proactive lets you stay on top of any concerns, keeping you in better health.

Your annual wellness visit should be the starting point for preventive health care and screenings. It allows your primary care physician to evaluate your physical and mental health to catch potential issues early.

A wellness visit includes reviewing your medical history, a physical exam, blood work, vaccinations, counseling for any issues identified, and health screenings. These routine checks are essential for monitoring your cholesterol and blood pressure. According to the CDC, heart disease, stroke, and high blood pressure are three of the leading causes of death in women across all races and ages. Keeping track of your heart health can reduce your risk with early intervention.

The CDC also reports that cancer is the second leading cause of death in women. It recommends regular screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, and lung cancers. With Gallup reporting that cancer rates are rising but screening rates for women have fallen, being proactive is essential. 

Here are general guidelines for when to schedule your screenings:

• Breast cancer: The American Cancer Society recommends yearly mammograms for women who are at average risk and between the ages of 45-54. Once you turn 55, you can screen every two years. Women at high risk should start screening at 30.
• Cervical cancer: The CDC recommends starting Pap tests at age 21, repeating every three years with normal results. You can also start HPV testing at age 30 once every five years with normal results. Depending on your screening results and medical history, you may be able to stop screening at age 65.
• Colorectal cancer: Adults aged 45-75 should be screened every five or 10 years, depending on the type of screening and risk factors. Screening after age 75 is based on your medical history.
• Lung cancer: A screening is recommended if you have a heavy smoking history, still smoke, or quit in the last 15 years, and are between 50 and 80 years old. 

The International Diabetes Federation reports that 11.1% of adults are living with diabetes, a leading cause of death and disability in the United States. The Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) recommends getting tested if you are at risk for type 2 diabetes or are overweight and between 35 and 70 years old. You can take this prediabetes risk test to evaluate your risk level.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) can be asymptomatic but lead to other health issues, including pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) and infertility. You should get tested if you are sexually active, but what you screen for and how often depends on several factors. The CDC offers detailed recommendations to guide you.

The FDA reports that osteoporosis affects 10 million Americans, with women accounting for 80% of the total. It is often caused by bone loss that results from menopausal hormonal changes and increases the risk of bone fractures. Women over 65 or those at increased risk should speak to their doctors about getting a bone density scan.