General Health Screening Recommendations For Adults
Abdominal aortic aneurysm: One time screening by ultrasound for AAA in men ages 65-75 who have ever smoked; if you have a family history of AAA, talk to your health care provider about screening.
Blood pressure: Initial evaluation at age 18 and then at least every 2 years, more often if measurements are borderline.*
Breast cancer: Have a mammogram every 1-2 years starting at age 40;* if family history of breast cancer, check with your health care provider as to screening/diagnostic testing.
Cervical cancer: Have a Pap smear every 1 to 3 years if you have ever been sexually active and/or between the ages of 21 and 65.* Check with your health care provider as to frequency of exams.
Cholesterol: Initial evaluation at 20 years of age and then every five years; more frequent measurements may be needed if levels are borderline or with medication changes.^
Colorectal cancer: Have a test for colorectal cancer starting at age 50. If you have a family history of colorectal cancer, you may need to be screened sooner; your health care provider can help you decide which test and when.*
Dental: Adults should be seen for routine dental care, oral cancer screening and oral hygiene at least once every year, preferably every 6 months.>
Depression: If you have felt “down”, sad or hopeless over the past 2 weeks or have little interest or pleasure in doing things, you may be depressed; talk to your health care provider about being screened for depression.*
Diabetes: Have a screening test to detect pre-diabetes or diabetes if ≥ 45 years of age and/or a body mass index (BMI) greater than 25 or have high blood pressure or high cholesterol.+*
Immunizations:
1.) Flu shot every year starting at age 50; if you are younger than 50, ask your health care provider whether you need a flu shot.
2.) Pneumonia shot once after you turn 65, ask your health care provider about your need for revaccination. If you are younger than 65, ask when you should receive the immunization.*
Obesity: Have your BMI calculated to screen for obesity.*
Osteoporosis: Have a bone density test beginning at age 65 to screen for osteoporosis; if you are between the ages of 60-64 and weigh < 154 lbs., talk to your health care provider about being tested.*
Prostate cancer: Talk to your health care provider as to when to have a digital rectal exam and prostate specific antigen (PSA) blood test.*
Skin cancer: A skin exam should be part of a routine cancer-related health examination.~
Testicular cancer: A yearly self-exam should be performed beginning at age 20.
* Agency for Healthcare Research and
^National Cholesterol Education Program, ATP III, 2001.
+American Diabetes Association, 2006.
> American Dental Association.
~ American Cancer Society, 2005.
Lifestyle/Safety Guidelines
As recommended by the U.S. Preventative Task Force
Alcohol: Your health care provider should regularly screen for alcohol use and misuse and advise behavior counseling interventions as necessary. Women should not have more than 1 drink per day and men no more than 2 drinks per day. Pregnant women should avoid alcohol. Excessive drinking and driving is unlawful.
Fire: Smoke detectors are effective in preventing deaths in residential fires. Correct installation and periodic testing are necessary to ensure proper operation. Never leave burning candles unattended. A fire extinguisher should be present in the home.
Firearms: If you own a firearm, the National Rifle Association recommends attending a firearm safety program in effort to reduce unnecessary accidents. Weapons should be stored unloaded and locked up.
Injury prevention: Any individual riding a bicycle, ATV, or other motorized vehicle that leaves you exposed should wear a helmet.
Seatbelts: It is the law to wear your seatbelt in
Smoking: Cigarette smoking is a leading cause for fire and burn injuries in adults. It is the number one cause for lung cancer and a major risk factor for heart disease. If you smoke, QUIT. If you do not smoke, abstinence is the key. Avoid exposure to second-hand smoke.
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