When it comes to women’s health, there are some screening guidelines women should consider. However, your health care provider may recommend more frequent screenings or other testing based on your medical or family history.

Here are some of the guidelines:

• Check blood pressure every 1 to 2 years
• Cholesterol screening (blood test) every 5 years
• Diabetes screening based on blood pressure, weight, and family history
• Flu vaccine every year
• Tetanus, diphtheria and pertussis booster (vaccine) every 10 years
• Pelvic and breast exam every year
• Cervical cancer screening (after age 21) every 1 to 5 years
• Annual breast cancer screening (mammogram) starting at age 40 to 50, based on family and medical history
• Colorectal cancer screening (colonoscopy) starting at age 50, with repeat testing based on initial results, history, and symptoms
• Osteoporosis screening (bone density test) at age 65
• Other screenings for tobacco use, alcohol and drug abuse, and depression

Preventative medicine is often overlooked because we all get busy with our families, work, and just life in general! However, getting routine checkups is important. Please schedule an annual physical with your primary care provider or with one of our providers in the women’s health department at Prevea today.