ASK THE EXPER T S : WOMEN ’ S HEALTH
Whichscreenings can help me
staywell?
The family physician says:
Start with
the basics
Your blood pressure and
cholesterol levels can greatly
affect your cardiovascular
health. If those levels are too
high, you’re at risk for problems
like heart attack and stroke.
Have your blood pressure checked at least every two years
after age 18, and get your cholesterol tested every five years
starting at age 20. You may need these screenings more often
if your numbers are too high. Ask your doctor what blood
pressure and cholesterol levels you should aim for.
The internist says:
Get inside
information
Screenings, such as colonoscopies, can
catch colon cancer before it ever begins—so don’t put them
off. Most people should start getting screened at age 50, but
you may need to start earlier if you are at high risk.
There are several different tests to screen for colorectal
cancer—some need to be done yearly, others every 5 or
10 years. Talk to your doctor about which test is right for
you and when to start screening.
You can be your own first line of
defense against skin cancer. Do
monthly skin checks, and let your doctor know
about any changes or unusual spots you find.
By reporting skin changes to your doctor right
away, you can help ensure that you catch cancer
in its earliest, most treatable stages. Your primary
care provider or a dermatologist can provide skin
checks at a regular checkup.
The OB-GYN says:
Combat cancer
Early detection can make all the difference
in successful treatment of breast and cervical
cancer—and screening can even help prevent
cervical cancer altogether.
Pap tests to look for precancerous cells or
cervical cancer should begin at age 21 and
continue every three years. Beginning at age 30,
women should have a Pap test combined with
an HPV test every five years. And most women
should have their first mammogram at age 40—
and every year thereafter. Your doctor may recom-
mend a different screening schedule depending on
your risk factors.
The dermatologist says:
Be savvy
about your
skin
To find a provider who is right for you, visit
and click on “Provider Directory.”
5
q
661-868-3280
