When was the last time you had a wellness check? Everyone’s busy and doctor’s appointments can be time-consuming and expensive. Yet, not finding a problem and getting preventive health care can cost a lot more time and money.

Those who wait until their health declines often have a harder time getting well. Continue reading to learn about health prevention screening guidelines.

Importance Of Preventive Health Care

Men and women need to invest in their wellness. This leads to longer, healthier lives. It also provides a better quality of life and lower medical costs.

The following describes preventative health care screening recommendations for men and women.

Colorectal Screening

The American Cancer Society (ACS) advises colorectal cancer screening for those ages 45 and 75 with average risk. This may be a stool-based test or a colonoscopy. Your doctor will recommend the interval for screening follow-ups.

Screening for people ages 76 and 85 depends on their general health, prior screening results, and preference. Colorectal cancer screening isn’t needed after age 85.

Cholesterol Screening

Cholesterol screening is important to assess your risk of heart disease and stroke. The recommended testing intervals are every four to six years during adulthood.

Blood Pressure Screening

The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends blood pressure screening for everyone aged 18 and older. Individuals over the age of 39 or with high risks should get it checked every year.

Diabetes Screening

Normal individuals over the age of 44 should have a diabetes screen every three years. Earlier screening is advised if you’re overweight, have blood pressure, or other risks.

Adult Immunizations

It’s important to get a flu shot every year. You also need a tetanus-diphtheria booster ever 10 years. After age 50, the shingles vaccine is recommended once.

Preventive Health Care For Men

Men should have routine wellness exams in addition to the screenings discussed. This aids in early diagnosis and treatment of acute and chronic diseases. Men also receive education and counseling to promote a healthy lifestyle.

Prostate Cancer Screening

Prostate cancer screening should start at age 45 or 50, depending on your history.

Preventive Health Care For Women

There are three main screening recommendations for women.

Pap Tests

The ACS recommends Pap tests to start screening for cervical cancer at age 21. Repeat this test every three years to age 29. Women aged 30 to 65 should have a Pap test and HPV test every five years if results remain normal.

An alternative option is to do only a Pap test every three years between ages 30 and 65. If tests are normal, you don’t need any further screening after age 65. Women who’ve had a non-cancer-related total hysterectomy can stop Pap tests.

Clinical Breast Exams

Clinical Breast exam recommendations have relaxed in recent years. Most women who stay familiar with their normal breasts notice changes early. If breast cancer is present, early detection and treatment is the key to successful outcomes.

Mammograms

In 2019 the American College of Physicians provided these guidelines for average-risk women.

  • Those aged 40 to 49 should talk with their clinician about getting a mammogram
  • Between the ages of 50 and 74, mammograms should be offered biennially
  • Stop mammogram screening after age 74

Always discuss the best options for your unique situations.

Are You Focused On Your Health And Wellness?

Participating in preventive health care is the key to living a long and healthy life. The Center for Health and Wellbeing serves as a bridge between conventional medicine and alternative therapies. We will keep you up-to-date about integrative options.

Contact us today to schedule an appointment.