Vital Health Screenings for Your To-Do List

Just like the helpful little warning lights on your car’s dashboard, health screenings can warn you of serious conditions before you notice any symptoms. And early warning usually means easier, more successful treatment.

According to Dr. Katharina Hahn, family medicine specialist with Aspirus Plover Clinic, below are the most vital screenings every woman should add to her to-do list.

• An annual mammogram is recommended for women age 40 and up to catch breast cancer early.
• A pap smear detects abnormal cells that could lead to cervical cancer. It’s recommended every 3 years for women 20 to 65.
• A colonoscopy screens for colon cancer. If you’re 45 or older, it’s time for your first one. Depending on the results, you may only need this test every 10 years.
• Bone density tests help detect osteoporosis, a disease that weakens the bones. It’s recommended you get your first one at age 60.
• Blood pressure screening can help reduce your risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease. For women 18 to 40, screening is recommended every 3 to 5 years. After 40, yearly screenings are recommended.
• Blood tests for cholesterol, blood sugar, and iron can help detect heart disease, anemia, diabetes, and other serious conditions. Depending on risk, we recommend these lab tests every 5 years for women 20 to 39, every 1 to 3 years in your 40s, and annually for women 50 and up.

“Keep in mind that these recommendations are general,” said Dr. Hahn. “If you have specific risk factors, your health care provider may suggest earlier or more frequent screenings.”

Schedule a screening today. To find an Aspirus provider, visit https://www.aspirus.org/find-a-provider.