As a woman, it’s important to prioritize your health by scheduling regular health screenings. These screenings can help you find potential health issues early on.
10 health screenings that all women should have:
- Pap Smear. This test screens for cervical cancer. It’s recommended that women between the ages of 21 and 65 get a Pap smear every three years. If you’re over 30, you may be able to get a Pap smear every five years if you also have an HPV test.
- Mammogram. A mammogram is a type of x-ray used to screen for breast cancer. Women between the ages of 50 and 74 should get a mammogram every two years. However, if you have a family history of breast cancer, you may need to start screening earlier.
- Bone Density Test. A bone density test is used to screen for osteoporosis. Women over the age of 65 should get a bone density test, but if you have risk factors like smoking or a family history of osteoporosis, you may need to start screening earlier.
- Blood Pressure Test. A blood pressure test measures the pressure of your blood against your artery walls. Women should have their blood pressure checked at least once a year.
- Cholesterol Test. A cholesterol test measures the amount of cholesterol in your blood. Women should get a cholesterol test every five years starting at age 45. However, if you have risk factors like smoking or a family history of heart disease, you may need to start screening earlier.
Next to check…
- Blood Glucose Test. A blood glucose test measures the amount of sugar in your blood. Women should get a blood glucose test every three years starting at age 45. Risk factors like being overweight or a family history of diabetes, may put you to start screening earlier.
- Colonoscopy. A colonoscopy is a test used to screen for colon cancer. Women should start getting colonoscopies at age 50 and continue every 10 years.
- Skin Cancer Screening. A skin cancer screening involves a visual examination of your skin to check for any abnormal moles or lesions. Women should get a skin cancer screening every year, especially if they have a history of sun exposure or tanning bed use.
- Eye Exam. An eye exam can detect vision problems, as well as other health issues like diabetes and high blood pressure. Women should get an eye exam every two years if they have no vision problems. If you have vision problems or are at risk for eye disease, you may need to get an exam more frequently.
- Dental Exam. A dental exam can detect oral health issues like gum disease, cavities, and oral cancer. Women should get a dental exam every six months.
Overall, it’s important for women to prioritize their health by scheduling regular health screenings. By staying on top of these screenings, you can detect potential health issues early. This helps to take steps to address them before they become more serious. /mommytobe
