 Screening for
Women
Dr. Holly Atkinson lays out some of the most important screening
recommendations that can help women stay on top of their health decade after
decade.
18-39 years:Height,
weight/BMI & blood pressure check at least every 2 to 3 years
Pelvic exam
every year starting at age 21
Pap test every 2
years starting at age 21 (for women 30 and older, every 3 years)
If you become sexually active before age 21, get
your first pap test within 3 years of starting
If sexually
active, check for sexually transmitted infections (e.g., chlamydia) if new or
multiple partners
40-49 years: consider all of the
above PLUS At age 40,
mammogram every 1 to 2 years At age 45,
diabetes screen every 3 to 5 years At age 40,
comprehensive eye exam, then every 2 to 4 years
50-64 years: consider all of the
above PLUS
Screen for
colorectal cancer every 5 to 10 years
At age 60, talk
to your doctor about shingles (herpes zoster) vaccine
65+ years: Talk
to your doctor about change in frequency of tests as you age. For full, interactive recommendations go to:
http://www.womenshealth.gov/whw/health-resources/screening-tool/ |
