If YourTown Health could share one message in honor of Women’s Health Month, it would be empowerment. Taking a proactive role in one’s health and wellbeing can be an investment in longevity and a better quality of life that pays priceless dividends.

The first step would be prioritizing preventative care. For women, staying on top of screenings remains crucial. YourTown Health providers suggest consulting the following guide, which includes the essential screenings every woman should keep on their radar throughout her life.

For Women 18 to 39

Blood Pressure and Cholesterol

According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine (NLM), screening guidelines for women ages 18 to 39 help lay the groundwork for healthy living. Knowing your blood pressure and cholesterol numbers at an early age can help avert possible damage that can lead to premature heart disease and stroke. Have your blood pressure checked at least every three to five years. The American Heart Association suggests women begin monitoring their cholesterol at age 20 and have it checked every four to six years. Consult with your provider if you fall into a category that calls for more frequent blood pressure and/or cholesterol screenings.

Cervical Cancer

According to the Centers for Disease Control & Prevention (CDC), nearly 200,000 women are diagnosed with cervical pre-cancer each year. However, cervical cancer screenings have helped make it one of the most preventable cancers. The Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) suggests women ages 21 to 29 at average risk for cervical cancer receive a screening via a Pap test every three years. For ages 30 to 65, the preferred screening method is a primary human papillomavirus (hrHPV) test every five years. Alternative options are Pap test and hrHPV co-testing every five years or a Pap test every three years.

Reproductive and Sexual Health

The CDC recommends that sexually active women aged 24 and younger should be tested for gonorrhea and chlamydia annually. Those 25 and older at higher risk should receive annual tests as well. If left untreated, these diseases can lead to infertility, pelvic inflammatory disease, and pregnancy complications.

Diabetes

The Diabetes Research Institute Foundation reports that diabetes continues to rise in America, with approximately 37.3 million people living with the disease. Diabetes complications can include stroke, heart disease, blindness, kidney failure, and lower-limb amputation. Catching it early is key. The American Diabetes Association’s standards suggest adults begin screening for prediabetes and diabetes at age 35 and every three years after that if results are normal.

Your 40s: The Shift to Early Detection

Breast Cancer

Although breast cancer is the second leading cause of cancer death in women, the National Breast Cancer Foundation says the five-year survival rate is more than 99% when caught in its earliest, localized stages. With the incidence rising in women under 50, some guidelines advise women at average risk to begin mammograms at age 40, although there are differences in frequency. For example, the U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF) recommends ages 40 to 74 receive a mammogram every other year. However, the American College of Radiology and Society of Breast Imaging suggests annual mammograms beginning at 40 with no upper age limit unless severe health issues come into play.

Colorectal Cancer

This cancer is yet another that continues rising in young adults. Today, the Cancer Research Institute says one in five diagnoses occurs in someone younger than 55. The American Cancer Society’s colorectal cancer screening guidelines now have the starting age at 45 for those at average risk, continuing periodically through at least age 75. The two options are stool-based tests or a visual exam of the colon and rectum, such as a colonoscopy. Your provider will help you choose the appropriate one for you.

50s, 60s & Beyond: Maintenance and Longevity

Bone Health

Our bones weaken as we age, making them prone to fractures. To be sure they’re as healthy as possible, the USPSTF recommends osteoporosis bone density scans for women starting at age 65. It can begin earlier for those who are postmenopausal and have risk factors. Osteoporosis treatment helps prevent fractures, strengthen bones, and lessen bone loss.

Lung Cancer

Although it’s sometimes overlooked, screening for lung cancer can be lifesaving. The USPSTF recommends annual screening for adults ages 50 to 80 who have a history of smoking approximately one pack of cigarettes each day for 20 years and currently smoke or have quit within the past 15 years.

Let YourTown Health Guide Your Screenings

Take a proactive role in your health by discussing your health screening schedule with a YourTown Health provider. Make an appointment by finding a location near you or messaging us online.