Preventive screenings for adults aged 18 and above are essential for early detection and prevention of various health conditions. The specific screenings recommended may vary based on factors such as age, sex, medical history, and risk factors. Here are some commonly recommended preventive screenings for adults aged 18 and older:
Blood Pressure Screening: Recommended at least once every two years for adults with normal blood pressure (less than 120/80 mmHg). More frequent screening may be necessary for individuals with high blood pressure or risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
Cholesterol Screening: Recommended every four to six years for adults aged 20 and older. More frequent screening may be necessary for individuals with risk factors for heart disease.
Body Mass Index (BMI) Measurement: BMI should be calculated during regular check-ups to assess weight status and risk for obesity-related health conditions.
Diabetes Screening: Recommended for adults with risk factors for diabetes, such as obesity, high blood pressure, or a family history of diabetes. Screening may include fasting blood glucose, oral glucose tolerance test, or A1C test.
Colorectal Cancer Screening: Recommended starting at age 45 for most adults. Screening options include colonoscopy, fecal occult blood test (FOBT), fecal immunochemical test (FIT), and stool DNA test.
Breast Cancer Screening: Recommended starting at age 40 for most women. Screening may include mammograms and clinical breast exams.
Cervical Cancer Screening: Recommended for individuals with a cervix aged 21 to 65. Screening includes Pap smear (Pap test) every three years or HPV test every five years. I personally recommend having a pap done no longer than three years. Please consult your OBGYN provider for their recommendations.
Prostate Cancer Screening: Recommended for men aged 50 and older, or earlier for men with a family history of prostate cancer or other risk factors. Screening may include a prostate-specific antigen (PSA) test and digital rectal exam (DRE).
Osteoporosis Screening: Recommended for women aged 65 and older, and for younger women with risk factors for osteoporosis. Screening may include bone density testing (DEXA scan).
Vision and Eye Health Screening: Recommended periodically for adults to detect vision problems and eye diseases such as glaucoma and macular degeneration.
Dental Check-ups: Regular dental exams and cleanings are essential for maintaining oral health and preventing dental problems.
Skin Cancer Screening: Recommended periodically for adults to detect skin cancer and precancerous lesions. Self-examination and professional skin exams are important for early detection.
These recommendations are general guidelines, and individual screening recommendations may vary based on personal health history, risk factors, and medical provider recommendations. It’s important for adults to discuss their screening needs with their healthcare provider and follow their recommendations for preventive care.