Screen Savers I

The following guidelines can be used to familiarize or remind you of some of the major health concerns and screenings you should be considering as an adult. As with any medical matter, the appropriateness and frequency of each screening is dependent on personal history and should be discussed with a physician.

Test: Blood Pressure
Checks for: hypertension, a risk factor for cardiovascular disease

How often: every physician visit, or at least every one to two years

Test: Blood Cholesterol
Checks for: elevated cholesterol level, a risk factor for heart disease

How often: periodic exams for men ages 35-65 and women ages 45-65, depending on risk factors and with physician consultation

Test: Mammogram
Checks for: breast cancer

How often: for women over 40, every 1 to 2 years depending on their overall health, family history and physicians' recommendation

Test: Pelvic Exam/Pap Smear
Checks for: cervical cancer

How often: initial exam when sexual activity begins, and continuing at least every three years thereafter

Test: Digital Rectal Exam

Checks for: colorectal cancer

How often: for men over 40, once a year

Test: Fecal Occult Blood Test
Checks for: colorectal cancer

How often: for men and women, annually after age 50

Test: Digital Rectal Exam and Prostate Specific Antigen Test
Checks for: prostate cancer

How often: for men over 50, once a year, depending on risk factors and physicians' recommendation