Which health screenings are recommended for women?
by Lisa Conway, RN
According to Temple University Health System, nine regular screenings are recommended for all women. Maybe you’ve delayed or canceled some of these appointments, so keep reading to see what you might need to schedule! You might be surprised to see that some recommendations have changed in recent years.
- Mammogram: The American Cancer Society recommends annual mammograms for women aged 45-54. Those with a family history may start annual screenings between 35-40. Women over 55 with normal prior screenings should have mammograms every two years.
- Cervical Cancer Screening: Pap smears detect cervical cancer, and are recommended every three years for women aged 20-29. Those 30-65 should have a Pap test and an HPV test every five years or a Pap test every three years.
- Colonoscopy: 45 or older? It’s time for your colonoscopy. This important screening detects colon cancer. The interval between colonoscopies is 10 years, if findings are normal. Your doctor may suggest more frequent screenings if anything is detected.
- Bone Density Testing: This test helps identify osteoporosis, an age-related disease that weakens the bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. A test is usually recommended for women at age 65.
- Blood Pressure Screening: High blood pressure increases your risk of heart attack, stroke and kidney disease. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends blood pressure screening every 3-5 years for healthy people aged 18-40. After then, have it checked annually. Your physician may recommend more frequent screenings.
- Blood test: Blood tests detect heart disease, anemia, diabetes and other serious conditions and should be performed (at least) annually. Information about your cholesterol, blood sugar, iron and more can help keep you healthy.
- Skin Cancer Check: New growths or changes in moles may be a sign of skin cancer. The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends a yearly body scan.
- Eye Exam: The American Academy of Ophthalmology suggests one eye exam in your 20s, two in your 30’s, at age 40, and then every two years. The risk for eye diseases increases with age.
- Dental Exam: Dental cleanings every six months reduce your risk of tooth decay and gum disease. Oral health affects your overall health.
Blood Pressure Check
Taking time for your health screenings benefits everyone in your life who loves you and depends on you. On Friday, May 2, One Senior Place in Viera will celebrate Women’s Day: a day of fun, prizes and information focused entirely on the well-being needs of women. RSVP at OneSeniorPlace.com/events or call 321-751-6771.
Lisa Conway is a Registered Nurse, Certified Dementia Practitioner and a Certified Care Manager for Senior Partner Care Services, Viera. Ms. Conway hosts a monthly seminar, ‘Senior Health Friday with Nurse Lisa.’ One Senior Place is a marketplace for resources and provider of information, advice, care and on-site services for seniors and their families. Submit your questions to AskOSP@OneSeniorPlace.com. For immediate help, call 321-751-6771 or visit One Senior Place, The Experts in Aging.